Today I planted the first of my potatoes, 36 Arran Pilot. They have chitted better than any of the others so are more than ready for planting out.

Then I turned my attention to the bird feeder. As much as I love feeding and watching the garden birds, the fallout from their food does make a mess.

The seed, which makes the most mess, is finished for the year and all I have left is peanuts, so It’s about time I started the clear up.

It’s also a good opportunity to neaten the grass edge where it joins the patio. Apart from making things look better, it uncovers a lot of un-eaten seeds, and allows me to do a proper job of brushing up.

Here’s a good tip if you want to give the impression of a well kept garden and you’re a bit short on time or energy. Keep up with your edging.

Around flower or vegetable beds, or around patios and stepping stones. If you’ve got a good, clean, neat edge it makes all the difference to the overall impression of the garden.