Start planting up for summer

If you want to grow pretty flowers in time for the warmer months, act now for some bright beauties

- With DIARMUID GAVIN

With a welcome hint of warmth in the air, it feels like spring is here and we can get going in the garden again.

If your pots and containers are looking a bit bare after winter, you could take this opportunity to clean them out, freshen up with new compost and plant some seeds in to ensure you have pots of colours in summer.

It's easy to pick up a packet of seeds at your garden centre or supermarket or order some through the post. There’s plenty of choice out there and you get good value for your money, especially if you are filling multiple containers.

Decide what you are trying to achieve. Do you fancy a miniature wildflower meadow with delicate-looking native flowers? A profusion of hot and colourful flowers? Maybe you'd like dual-purpose plants such as herbs. Or perhaps you desire fragrant flowers near a seating area. All of these can be achieved on a budget and with a bit of gardening know-how.