Health experts are urging gardeners to be weary of legionnaires disease this weekend

With 23 cases of the disease already confirmed in the region this year, the Canterbury District Health Board has a few tips for those heading into the yard.

A DHB spokesperson says a potting mix or compost bag should be opened carefully with scissors.

They also recommend the wearing of a face-mask and gloves and to work with mixes in well ventilated areas.

Last year there were 39 hospitalisations from legionnaires' in Canterbury.