February and March see the days beginning to lengthen, temperatures increasing, and the sap rising. There is a feeling of anticipation for the new season ahead and the garden coming to life again. Shrubs provide the ideal backbone for mixed borders and can also create an eye-catching focal point. By planting shrubs that flower at…

Transitioning from summer to autumn can be challenging for any gardener looking to retain the picture-postcard garden of midsummer. However, a few well-chosen plants mean summer can be extended into the early autumn months as the weather turns cooler and days grow shorter. COLOURFUL CONTAINERSContainers planted in May with the classic mix of half-hardy plants…

Few of the hardy plants look as stunning in late summer as hydrangeas. Hydrangeas are well-known and well-loved garden plants. These gorgeous, giant bloomed plants flower from late spring to late autumn and are easy-to-care-for plants that provide colour and flowers for many months. Many have beautiful autumn leaves too. It’s best to check that…

Only one flower signifies summer for some gardeners – the rose. Garden designer Joy Grey tells us, roses are among our favourite garden plants and deservedly so. They are versatile, produce vibrant colour all summer long and well into autumn or even winter, and many are deliciously scented. People often believe that roses look after…