LET’S GET prepped

FLOWER OF THE MONTH

Waterlily flowers add an exotic touch to a room, lasting about five days when cut. Pick buds or flowers that have just opened – they’ll feel firm to the touch. When planting waterlilies, line mesh baskets with peat or coconut fibre and use good, heavy soil, not potting mix. Make sure the roots are at the bottom of the basket with the leaves floating on the water. The ideal depth of water varies according to variety; raise your basket up on bricks if the water is deeper than yours requires. Feed plants with at least three fertiliser tablets at the start of the growing season.

YOUR APRIL CHECKLIST

It’s autumn, which means it’s time to clean up your garden in preparation for winter. This isn’t as essential in warmer climates, but wherever