Horticultural tips.

_ Lower the height of cut on the lawn mower after the third or fourth mowing, but don't be tempted to cut too short. If the weather turns dry a closely cut lawn will quickly turn brown.

_ If you have a greenhouse or conservatory, plant up hanging baskets now to give them a head start. Keep them indoors at night until the end of the month.

_ Prune early-flowering clematis once all the blooms have faded.

May 15, 2003 10:00