What to Do in the Garden or Allotment This Weekend

With the weather looking on the wet side again, this weekend is shaping up to be less about big outdoor projects and more about sensible, productive jobs that keep everything ticking along.

That’s no bad thing. These quieter weekends are often the ones that set you up best for the weeks ahead, especially if you make good use of time under cover and avoid working wet soil.

Here are a few worthwhile things to focus on in the garden or allotment this weekend.

Make the Most of Sowing Time

Rainy weather is ideal for seed sowing, particularly in the greenhouse, cold frame or on a windowsill.

This is a good moment to sow quick and reliable crops such as salad leaves, mustards and herbs. These crops germinate quickly, give fast results, and are perfect for filling gaps between bigger sowings.

Try not to sow everything at once. Smaller, regular sowings will give you a steadier harvest and avoid having too much ready at the same time.

Pot On Seedlings Before They Slow Down

If you’ve got seedlings or plug plants that are starting to look a bit cramped, potting them on now will make a big difference.

Small pots, around 5.4 centimetres, are ideal at this stage. They give roots enough room to grow on without wasting compost or space. It’s one of those simple jobs that doesn’t take long but really helps plants stay healthy and moving forward.

Tidy the Areas That Get Ignored

Wet weekends are perfect for tackling small tidying jobs close to home.

This could include clearing behind the greenhouse, sorting pots and trays, tidying around sheds, or giving greenhouse floors a sweep. These areas are easy to overlook, but keeping them tidy helps reduce pests, improves airflow, and makes the space far nicer to work in.

Harvest What You Need

If conditions allow, harvesting is still well worth doing. Root crops like carrots and parsnips can be lifted as needed, and taking a few now can help free up space for future sowings.

Just be careful not to compact wet soil. Harvest what you need and leave the rest until the ground firms up again.

Deal With Ongoing Problems Little by Little

If you get a break in the weather, it’s a good opportunity to tackle ongoing problem areas such as brambles, nettles or self-seeded trees.

These jobs are rarely enjoyable, and they’re not usually quick, but even making a small dent is worthwhile. You don’t need to finish everything in one go.

Use the Time to Plan Ahead

Finally, weekends like this are ideal for planning.

Check what seeds you’ve got left, think about what needs sowing next, and make a simple list of jobs for the coming week. A bit of forward planning now makes the busier months far more manageable.

This weekend doesn’t need to be about dramatic changes. A few steady, well-timed jobs will quietly move everything in the right direction, and that’s often how the best gardens are built.