Annuals, perennials and bulbs in early summer

Herbaceous Perennials

- Cut back early-flowering plants to within 3 in. of soil level after flowering.
- Divide primroses for re-planting.
- Apply a 1 in. mulch of peat or leaf-mould between moisture- or shade-loving plants.

Annuals and other flowers from seed

- Complete planting of half-hardy annuals.
- Water recently planted half-hardy annuals thoroughly in dry spells.
- Support taller-growing annuals.
- Spray monthly with a systemic insecticide.
- Hoe weeds among bedding plants. Sow hardy annuals.
- Set out seedlings of hardy biennials in a nursery bed, preferably during showery weather.
- Sow hardy perennials outdoors.
- Sow wall­flowers and sweet Williams in drills in their flowering positions.
- Sow hardy perennials in a heated greenhouse.

Bulbs

- Start lifting spring bulbs whose foliage has turned yellow. Place bulbs in shallow boxes and dry in a well ventilated shed. When dry, remove dead leaves, roots and skins, then store in a cool, dry shed.
- Plant de Caen anemone corms for autumn and winter flowering in mild climayte areas.
- Plant out arum lilies, or stand pots outdoors for their summer rest.
- In greenhouse dry off lachenalias flowered in pots. Pot or re-pot vallota bulbs.