W E E K E N D W O R K

Set celery plants out in trenches well laced with muck or compost. They are greedy plants and want plenty of food and water. Set them about 1ft apart in a double row, one each side of the trench.

Sow sweetcorn in a warm, sheltered place outdoors if you have not been bringing seeds on inside. To get a good set of cobs, arrange the plants in a square grid about 18in apart each way.

Runner and French beans can safely be put out now, either as plants or seeds. Runner beans are traditionally planted 8in apart in two lines 1ft apart, but a wigwam takes up less space. Push in poles about 8in apart in a circle and tie them securely at the top. Last year I sowed `Kelvedon Marvel' (Unwins, pounds 1.35), shorter and earlier than standard types. The pods are shorter, too, not necessarily a disadvantage.

Clear wallflowers and tulips from tubs and beds. Replace the compost, or top layer of it, before replanting containers, incorporating water- retaining granules and slow-release fertiliser if necessary.