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with new aquatic plantsKeep newly planted trees and shrubs well watered until establishedAvoid mowing off leaves of crocus and dwarf bulbs growing in lawns until early June

Collect fruits and berries from cotoneaster and pyracantha, and sow their seedsCheck stored bulbs and tubers for signs of rot Bring potted strawberries into the greenhouse or put in a cold frame to protect from coldWash glazing inside and out to let

and foodSprinkle an all-purpose fertiliser along the base of hedgesMove patio pots to sheltered sites during extremely cold periodsOrder bulbs, corms and tubers for summer flowers, including dahlias, canna lilies, gladioli, eucomis and lilies

Top up fuel tank of paraffin heater every eveningBring potted hyacinths and bulbs under cover to bloomMake a sowing plan for raising greenhouse crops and bedding plants, and order seeds Bring potted peaches under cover to prevent an attack of leaf

Sow green manure crops to fill bare soilRemove pond weedsHoe and hand weed bordersFeed plants such as roses, shrubs and hedgesPrepare soil ready for sowing a lawn or laying turf during September and OctoberSend off for mail-order bulb catalogues

Plant winter salads in guttering or growing bagsCheck heaters are working efficientlyClean staging and wash capillary matting to use next summerLine greenhouses with bubble polythene for insulationBring pots of tender bulbs, like agapanthus

mould from fallen leavesPlant drifts of lily-of-the-valley in shaded bedsFinish planting tulip bulbs outsideImprove soil by incorporating compostDeadhead pansies to prevent them setting seed

and out to let in more lightTake root cuttings of perennials including phlox and oriental poppiesPlant hippeastrum bulbsUse rainwater to keep the compost of potted azaleas constantly moistVentilate greenhouses on warm, dry days

Plant colourful, evergreen Phormium 'Cream Delight' in a patio pot to brighten winter displaysTake care not to walk over borders or on lawns where spring bulbs and flowers will be emergingOrder young plants from mail-order companies

Plant garlic cloves in midwinter to ensure your best harvest the following summer. It's always best to buy bulbs from seed merchants that are certified virus-free and bred for growing in local conditions. You can also use shop-bought garlic, but you