Gardening: Jobs to do

Always a winner

Go on, grow something old-fashioned and delightful to behold. Carnations are gorgeous things, so start seeds inside then plant out in a sunny spot when it's warmer.

Feed them well

Prune camellias after flowering then feed them and your azaleas to encourage new growth. While you're at it, apply a good fertiliser around the base of fruit trees and water in.

Care for your lawn

If you're not sure what your lawn needs, grab a testing kit from the garden centre to help determine where, when and how much fertiliser should be applied.

Be alert for aphids

As trees begin to flower and come into leaf, start a spray programme to control leaf curl, brown rot and any early insects like aphids.