In April the garden at Standen really begins to come to life, with leaves appearing on shrubs, trees and herbaceous plants, as well as enough flowers that we can appreciate them in combination as well as individuals.

At Standen we are in the middle of a five-year major garden restoration, which includes replanting much of the garden as it was in the early 20th century, when Margaret Beale created it. Among her favourite spring plants were rhododendrons, camellias and magnolias, and examples of the ones she planted can still be seen today, producing a spectacular display.

Now is a great time to visit and see these plants in magnificent bloom. They may inspire you to grow some yourself – they come in different sizes and many would suit a small garden. They are also low maintenance and require little attention.

Early April is the time to start many plants from seed, particularly those that are not fully hardy. Sow these under cover, on a windowsill or in a greenhouse, and by the time they are large enough to go outside, hopefully the frosts will be gone. This works well with Diascia and snapdragons, as well as vegetables such as climbing French beans.

Once plants start growing well, you may need to feed them. This can be done in a number of ways: conventional or organic fertilisers can be applied, and for good flowers and fruit a tomato-type feed does well. These can be a powder or granules, applied directly around the plant to reach the roots, or a liquid feed watered onto the foliage.

Another method of adding food is to mulch around plants. Putting down a few inches of material such as compost once the soil has warmed up will keep the warmth and moisture in, add food, prevent roots from being baked in the summer and look nice. Take care not to smother plants, or to put the mulch too deeply around the stems of trees or shrubs.

April is a month when the garden burgeons and your work through the winter can really start to be appreciated.

  • Standen, West Hoathly Road, East Grinstead, West Sussex, RH19 4NE, Tel: 01342 323029, www.nationaltrust.org.uk/standen
  • House, garden, restaurant and shop open every day from Feb 16 to Dec 24 (weekends only from Nov 9 to 24 )