The new year is the perfect time to develop new plans for your 2010 garden. Pick up some colourful seed catalogues to get you through the long nights or visit the new seed displays at your local garden centre. But beware - the colourful pictures are all very tempting!

Grow onions from seed or use Onion Sets.
Fill the seed tray with Seed & Cutting Compost and gently firm down to make a level surface. Water the compost and allow to drain. Sprinkle the onion seed over the surface and cover with a light sprinkle of compost. Place into a light plastic bag until the seeds germinate in 2 to 3 weeks. Seedlings will be ready to transplant outside in late March.
You can also use onion sets - simply stick the 'baby' onion in the soil, in the
garden when the weather improves a bit..

Love your Orchids
Did you get an orchid as a present?
Most houseplant orchids come from tropical rainforests, that's why they appreciate a damp atmosphere around the leaves and visible roots so spray regularly with tepid water. Only water the special bark compost occasionally and don't worry if the aerial roots grow out of the pot - that's normal. A monthly feed with Miracle-Gro Pour & Feed will help the plant continue to flower for months.

Consider the Lilies

It's time to plant lilies out in garden borders or in deep patio pots filled with Miracle-Gro Moisture Control Compost. Pick a sunny spot and dig a deep enough planting hole so the bulbs can be covered to twice their depth. Watch out for bright red Lily beetles in early summer and spray the plants with BugClear Ultra Gun! at the first signs of attack.

Protect your greens

In the depths of winter, pigeons can ruin a crop of kale, sprouting broccoli, spring greens and sprouts as they hunt for tasty green leaves. Cover with netting that is supported well above the tops of the plant (prevents birds landing on them to peck through). Also, firm the soil around the stem of Brussels sprouts to encourage tight buttons rather than blown green foliage.

Keep your Houseplants happy

Position your new houseplants carefully - find a light, warm spot out of direct sunlight and protected from cold draughts. Don't overwater - only moisten the compost when the surface feels dry. For healthier flowering and foliage plants, feed with Miracle-Gro Pour and Feed.

Birds need feeding

Wild song birds will visit your garden regularly if they are sure of finding a supply of food. During the winter a regular supply of mixed seed stored in a pigeon and squirrel-proof container will provide vital nutrients. Suet balls contain a high fat mix especially beneficial in cold weather.