As warmer weather spreads across the UK, gardening enthusiasts are gearing up to transform their outdoor spaces.

One common thing most people are looking for is vibrant blooms in their gardens.

According to expert Monty Don, while May is the perfect time to plant annuals such as sunflowers, zinnias, cosmos, and tobacco plants, it is important to let them “harden off”.

He said: “Hardening off is important and will mean much faster growing and longer-lasting flowers.

“If you buy any of these annuals from a garden centre over the coming weeks, do not plant them out immediately.

In addition to planting techniques, Monty said it is also important to use feeds high in potash to promote robust root and flower formation in flowering plants. 

He recommends a weekly feed using liquid seaweed or proprietary liquid tomato feed as effective options. 

The key, he notes, is to provide just the right amount of nutrients, avoiding over-fertilization.