-Sow sweetcorn seeds, such as ‘Sundance’ and ‘Swift’, in 3in pots and leave to germinate in the greenhouse or on a well-lit windowsill. Plant them outside, 18in-24in apart, in late May or early June, in a warm, sunny spot with well-drained soil. To guarantee wind pollination, plant in compact blocks, rather than a single row.
- To repair worn patches on the lawn, lightly rake and fork over the exposed soil, moisten the ground, then scatter fresh grass seed on top. Keep the soil slightly damp.
- In mild areas, plant dormant dahlia tubers in sheltered and sunny borders. The soil should be reasonably fertile and well-drained. In colder gardens, delay planting until the end of the month.
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- Check that onion sets have not been lifted out of the soil by frosts and foraging birds — replant any that have been disturbed.
Reader’s question
Is it possible to stop blackfly attacking broad beans in my organic garden?
P Wood, Coventry
Blackflies (aphids) frequently infest the shoot tips of broad beans in late spring, causing weak growth and poor harvests. Put pots of summer savory (Satureja hortensis) next to your beans, as the scent repels the insects. If you notice clusters of blackfly on your broad beans, pinch out and destroy the affected tips.