Spring is a very busy time for most gardeners, digging, planting and seeding. Container plants also need attention at this time of year if they are to grow well and bloom profusely later in the year.
Spring is the best time of year to buy plants
Buy new potted plants
Spring is perfect for buying new potted plants, but you should proceed with caution. It is better to buy sensitive plants after the ice saints, if you cannot keep them frost-free for a while.
Even hardy potted plants don't particularly like extreme temperature changes. Only if they have overwintered outside in a nursery or hardware store can the plants be put into your garden straight away.
Cut potted plants
Older potted plants should be pruned once a year. If you overwinter in the garden, this pruning should only take place in the spring, because the (wilted) green serves as winter protection for the plant. In addition, some potted plants, such as the Chinese reed, are a very decorative eye-catcher in the winter garden.
Prepare potted plants for the growing season
Before you bring your potted plants back into the garden or onto the terrace in spring, you should check the plants for pest infestation or possible diseases and treat them if necessary. Also check immediately whether the size of the planter is still appropriate and the potting soil is not used up.
If necessary, repot your potted plants or replace used potting soil. Alternatively, provide the plants with a high-quality slow-release fertilizer. Then slowly acclimate your potted plants to the cool air and sunshine if you don't want to risk damaging the plants.
The essentials in brief:
- don't buy too early
- do not put sensitive plants outside too early
- Check for any disease or pest infestation
- gradually get used to the cool outside temperatures
- Cut back if not already done in autumn
- possibly repot or change soil
- give slow-release fertilizer if necessary
tips
Frost-sensitive plants, such as citrus fruits, dahlias or fuchsias, may only move into the garden after the ice saints.