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, taking time to pick out roots of perennial weedsSpread a layer compost around shrubs and along the base of hedgesPlant new roses and shrubsThin out the top growth on standard roses to prevent damage from the weather and wind rockBe ready to knock snow

Plant bare-root roses in well-prepared groundTrim away unwanted suckers growing around the base of treesClear borders and rake up leaves before bulbs start poking through the groundDig over gaps in borders, taking time to pick out roots of perennial

you want them to form autumn hipsTrim lavender immediately after flowering to maintain its shape, but avoid cutting back too far into old woodHoe weeds regularly to prevent seedlings establishingTrim conifer hedges, evergreen hedges and topiary

.Remove infected leaves from plants as soon as the fungus is seen. In winter, when the hollyhock dies down, clear away any infected leaves as they will harbour the fungal infection. Weeds such as common mallow, which are related to hollyhocks, also harbour rust so

pods that taste much better than any out-of-season beans in a supermarket.Plant tender crops outsideDig out perennial weedsWash dust off the foliage of houseplantsAround the gardenPlant up hanging basketsPlant out potted alliums to add interest

Remove blanket weed from pondsAround the gardenLift, divide and replant congested flag irises after floweringDeadhead border perennialsPick dead flowers off rhododendronsFlowersSow cabbages to pick as spring greensThin heavy crops of apples, pears

of fruit. Summer pruning is also ideal for keeping trees in shape. Pick herbs, lavender and everlasting flowersBe on the lookout for developing pest problemsDig out problem lawn weeds or treat with weedkiller Around the gardenPick bulbils from lily stems

The taste of fresh asparagusin May is worth waiting for. A perennial crop, established asparagus plants will provide an annual crop of tasty spears for up to 20 years.Choose the spot you will grow your asparagus carefully. Asparagus needs lots

perennial weeds; before the garden really gets going it is quite easy to track them down. Also the ground is soft enough to winkle out the clinging roots of buttercups or the long parsnipy tap roots of docks. The nicotine yellow roots of nettles are easy

Some people get a bit snobby when it comes to flowers. Perennials usually come high in the pecking order for the 'must have' plants of the moment, but when did you last hear anyone singing the praises of hardy annuals?Annuals are the unsung heroes