Last Moment Farming Guidelines for spring

Maybe you've been enjoying the nice indoors weather over the last few months. Compared to the record-breaking sweltering heat of last March, 2013 has been absolutely freezing in comparison, and no-one would blame even the most avid gardener for putting of a few tasks for the immediate warmth of their sofa, blankets and fireplace.

But it's time to get up and get outside. Slowly but surely the sun is starting to rise again, and temperatures along with it. Pretty soon plants will be leaving dormancy and there'll be no time left to carry out all the important maintenance tasks which spring up over the winter period.

If you've got a greenhouse you'll want to clear it out. There'll be a lot of new spring and summer flowering seeds lined up there in the coming months, so it's best to wipe down the glass and sweep out loose seeds and soil before you get too busy.

For those who irrigate and drain their garden effectively, there's every chance your drainage ditches and pipes have become clogged up over winter with debris and runoff. If you haven't been cleaning up since the autumn then things could easily be quite a mess. Get down on your knees, or grab a litter clearer if your back isn't in great condition, and clear out the sod, leaves and twigs which built up over the past few months. Spring rains will flood you in no time if you let them lie for too long.

While you're clearing out the mess, take some time to examine your raised flower beds in particular. If the ground freezes, or they're simply assaulted by the elements over winter, then the walls might be in a less than perfect state. The sides might be loose and weathered, and soil might be overflowing (no doubt in the hopes of getting to your drainage ditches). Touch up the edges and drill any loose panels back into a secure state. Be sure you haven't lost any soil, and dig some compost into the first six to twelve inches of the bed. This will improve the soil quality for the months ahead, and make sure it's not running too low.

The warmth of your home might be enticing, but by the time it's pleasant enough to get outside you risk being left with an unprepared and messy garden. Follow these tips and be sure to get it into good condition, and you'll no doubt be off to an excellent start for the planting and growth yet to come.