The Japanese cherry blossom season has officially started, in Tokyo at least, somewhat earlier than usual apparently. No blossom yet in Scotland but buds are swelling and it is a good time to give a feed and top-dress. 

As with any plant in a pot for a long time the compost level can drop which allows a bit of fresh material to be added along with nutrients such as blood, fish and bone or slow release fertiliser. Here the varieties Kordia, Regina and Van are being compared as container grown trees, Kordia seems very tall and vigorous whereas Regina and Van are much smaller and compact, possibly making them more suited to pots. We will see how they fruit.

In just a couple of week my early potatoes have shot up. The soil level has been topped up to two thirds full and the foliage has reached the top of the container. As they get bigger they will be further earthed up until the container is full. They can still be easily covered with fleece to protect them on colder nights.

Hosta bursting into life.