Hints and tips by David Greaves for February / March

• Lift and divide overgrown clumps of perennials.
• Cut back dogwood (Cornus) and willow (Salix).
• Pull any weeds showing before they get out of hand.
• On warmer days open greenhouse and conservatory doors and vents to assist with germination.
• Plant shallots, onion sets and early potatoes, but keep warm in a greenhouse or conservatory.
• Continue to plant hedging plants, shrubs, trees and climbers, ensure to stake and rabbit guard them.
• Ornamental cherries, plums and almonds are vulnerable to silver leaf if pruned before mid summer.
• Remove any reverted green shoots on hardy variegated evergreens to prevent reversion taking over.
• Cut deciduous hedges if necessary.
• Keep vines, ivy and creepers away from windows, doors, gutters and roof tiles.
• Check and repair pergolas and arches if needed.
• Remove algae from paths and patios to avoid them becoming slippery.
• During dry spells treat timber structures with wood preservative or stain, ensure it’s a well ventilated place.

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