We wanted to provide some guidance for looking after your garden in now that springtime has finally arrived.
For those looking after their own gardens, however, you may know that a lot of plants will need pruning in early spring to promote the growth of new flowers and tame the shape of certain shrubs and bushes.
Before you get the shears or pruners out, the National Trust warns us to be careful of wildlife that may be hibernating from within. They say: "Take care not to disturb nesting birds and always check carefully before pruning hedges or shrubs. When you tidy and cut back winter growth in spring, remember it may be home to insects and amphibians, or even a hibernating hedgehog."
We are keen to promote increasing biodiversity in and around our homes as part of our better places strategy and will work with our contractors to encourage increased awareness and best practice.
When pruning hedges it’s important to follow the 'A' shape - allowing for a thicker base at the bottom and a narrower top. This means that any animals that may be in in there can still find protection while also giving maximum chances for sunlight to reach the hedge in its entirety.
In terms of the best tips and tricks for pruning, BBC Gardeners' World presenter, Monty Don, offers some advice. He says to ensure you are using sharp tools and to make sure you cut back to a bud or a leaf. Sharp tools are vital as they guarantee a clean cut which encourages healing and prevents diseases.
James Glass, director of places adds “You should take care and make sure you don’t leave tools around for others to find, but to enjoy the approaching summer and utilise the green spaces Notting Hill Genesis and wider London has to offer”.
