Beans - Sow French and runner beans where they are to grow and crop. Protect the emerging shoots from birds and slugs.

Ponds - Continue to remove algae and blanket weed. Replant or buy new aquatic plants.

Hardy Annuals - Thin out any hardy annuals that are becoming overcrowded. This will ensure sturdy plants and a longer flowering season than similar plants that have had to compete for light.

Shade Plants - Plants in the greenhouse will need shading to prevent scorch. Outside, the young growth of Japanese maples and rhododendrons may benefit from shading with fleece on hot days in southern areas.

Iris - Dwarf bearded Iris will be nearing the end of their display and old, flowered stems can be snapped off at ground level. Apply a rose fertilizer around Siberian Iris that will flower in early July. Stake the spikes of any tall bearded Iris that were replanted last year and may look a little unsteady.

Roses - Look for greenfly (aphids) on flower buds and spray if necessary. Look, too, for the first signs of mildew or black spot and spray plants to prevent them being weakened.

Rhododendrons - These are difficult to resist at garden centres, but only buy them if you have an acid soil and a sheltered site. If not, buy a lilac, rose or spiraea which will give a longer display and be better suited to your garden.