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For two years, I have been trying to grow climbing plants to cover the walls of my garden. I've planted honeysuckle, passion flower, jasmine, numerous clematis and a revolting rose I found in the street. Some died, others developed mildew, while

. Garden fork Sharp knifeLarge potsGritty compost mix made from equal parts grit or perlite and potting compostLabel and pencilDecember - January30 minutesUse a garden fork to lift the whole plant out of the ground gently, taking care not to damage its

In early spring, there were a lot of discussions in the garden media over whether the harsh winter would have reduced numbers of garden pests.The slugs and snails were slow to appear after the cold, dry April. But most other critters, good and bad

bird baths and feedersAround the gardenClear faded growth of golden hops and annual climbersPlant bare-root roses in well-prepared soilTransplant shrubs and conifersFlowersCheck fruits in store for signs of rot or deteriorationPlant new fruit bushes

a fine rose on the watering can. Place the pot in a cold frame or window sill to grow on.More on growing liliesDealing with lily beetleDeadheading lilies Planting lilies in a pot

'Multi-purpose compost7.5cm plastic potsPlant labelsPencil or waterproof penWatering can with rose attachment Plastic bottlesMarch - May30 minutesJune - SeptemberUse a good multi-purpose compost to fill 7.5cm pots to 1cm below the rim. Tap each pot to settle the compost

.More advice on pruningPruning shrub rosesPruning viburnumsWinter-pruning wisteriaPruning spring-flowering shrubs

or planting a shrub or tree, now’s the time to do it.There’s a small selection of fruiting plants in my garden, namely holly, guelder rose (Viburnum opulus), dog rose  (Rosa glauca) and ivy. All were planted as bare-root shrubs last autumn, except the ivy

, which can be planted out in March or April for a quick-growing crop. Sets are available from garden centres or by mail order, and although the range of varieties is not quite as wide as from seed, it's is an easy, reliable method of growing.Whether you

.Water the cuttings using a watering can fitted with a rose and allow the excess to drain and the foliage to dry. Then cover the pot with a clear polythene bag held in place with a rubber band around the pot.Place the pot on a well-lit position indoors, but out