Brits most

Over the past few weeks, Brits have been basking in the glory of gorgeous sunshine, and with it, our gardening gloves and spades have made their triumphant return.

But let's face it, even the greenest thumbs among us encounter a few bumps along the garden path.

Using data from SEMRush, Answer the Public and Also Asked, the garden and outdoors experts at Hayter have uncovered the nation's most common gardening questions, based on the Monthly Search Volume (MSV).

The experts have answered those questions to help you create your very own green oasis.

So, get ready to combat those gardening issues like a pro this summer:

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The eternal question on every gardener's lips – "When should I plant?" According to the experts, timing is everything, when it comes to gardening.

If you're growing your own fruits and veggies, springtime is the go-to season for most plantings. But hold your horses, or rather, your seeds! Make sure you've bid farewell to frost and cold snaps before you start digging.

Seeds are a picky bunch and won't sprout below a chilly soil temperature of about 7°C. Now, there are some rebels like broad beans and aubergines that can be planted a tad earlier, but they're the exception, not the rule.

As for flowers, the ideal seasons to plant perennials are autumn (September/October) or spring (March/April).

During these times, the ground is typically moist, giving your perennials the best chance to show off their flowery prowess. For more information on when to plant certain plants, check the Royal Horticultural Society's ‘My Garden’ app.

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How to stop cats pooing on garden (MSV: 5,400)

Turns out that cats pooing on your garden is a common issue for gardeners in the UK. In fact, well over 5,000 people are searching for an answer to this conundrum every month.

Stopping your own cat from doing a number two in your garden can be difficult enough, let alone dealing with any local strays. Most solutions to this are focused on smell - cats have sensitive noses and can be deterred from your garden with strong smells like lavender or cinnamon, mixed with water and sprayed on your plants.

You could also try leaving citrus peels around your garden - or, for a more permanent solution, install a motion-controlled sprinkler system.

What is mulch in gardening? (MSV: 5,400)

It might seem obvious if you’re an experienced gardener, but mulch is clearly a head-scratching topic for gardening newbies. Mulch is a blanket term for any material that is spread atop the surface of your soil to cover it, improving your soil's health and fertility.

Organic mulch could be things like grass clippings, chipped bark or pine needles. Other household items like newspaper could also be used to help your garden suppress weeds and control soil temperatures.

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How to get rid of rats in the garden (MSV: 3,600)

Another pest-related problem, rats can damage your garden and be difficult to get rid of. Just like cats, rats have a deep dislike for lavender's enchanting aroma. So, sprinkle some lavender magic around your garden to send those furry intruders packing.

Reducing clutter is another good way to discourage them from your garden. Rats love hiding in woodpiles and cosy garden furniture, so don't give them a free pass to the rat hotel.

How to level a garden (MSV: 1,900)

If your garden requires a major facelift, it's usually best to leave the heavy lifting to the professionals. But if you're feeling adventurous and fancy a DIY levelling project, there are plenty of online resources available to help you manage the task at hand, depending upon your situation.

What is the best garden hose? (MSV: 1,900)

Numerous excellent garden hoses are readily available in the market, so it's important to select the perfect one for your specific garden needs.

Opt for hoses that are anti-kink and anti-twist, as there's nothing more frustrating than dragging a hose only to discover it's tangled right at the beginning.

To determine your ideal hose length, grab a tape measure and assess your requirements. Then, based on your budget, explore hoses that meet your desired length - if it comes with additional heads like a spray gun, even better.

How to get rid of ants in the garden? (MSV: 1,600)

Tiny but mighty, ants can wreak havoc on your garden like an army of miniature destroyers, so it's no surprise that people are keen to get rid of ants from their gardens.

It's easy to get rid of ants using household products – just mix water with vinegar and spray your plants. The solution will kill all the ants trying to take over your garden.

The same impact can be had by mixing Borax with sugar – this will tempt the ants in and help eliminate the problem.

How to design your garden?

Redesigning your garden can breathe new life into your home's surroundings or simply provide you with a backyard haven of relaxation. To embark on this exciting journey, start by measuring your space and setting a budget.

With these crucial details in mind, let your imagination run wild as you sketch out your dream garden. However, when it comes to the complex stuff, it's best to leave the heavy lifting to the professionals.