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unwanted suckers growing around the base of trees and shrubsLift large waterlilies from ponds, divide and replant themClean pond pumps and filters, and make sure they are working properlyHand weed alpine and rock gardens

Mow lawns regularly, gradually lowering the height of the cut as spring progressesTreat problem weeds, such as nettles and brambles, with weedkillerTidy up hedges, but before you start cutting make sure no birds are nesting in them Keep large sheets

Plant tender crops outside, covering them with cloches when night temperatures fallDig out perennial weeds, such as couch grass and bindweed, from borders as soon as you spot themWash dust off the foliage of houseplants, and apply leaf shine product

Run a 'seeping hose' - a hose with holes in - through dry shaded borders or along the base of hedges so they can be watered weekly in dry weatherTreat lawn weeds and moss if necessary

hardy annuals in late March and into April, digging over, weeding and enriching the soilLift and divide congested border plantsPlant out lilies to fill gaps in borders, or grow them on in pots Trim winter-flowering heathers

Dig out lawn weeds, such as daisies and dandelionsWatch out for greenfly and blackfly developing on shrubs, perennials and roses, and spray with a soft soap solution if infestations are badCollect hellebore seeds from ripe pods, and store

-rotted manure)autumn or springan hourPrepare the soil by thoroughly digging it over, removing weeds and mixing in organic matter such as well-rotted manure. A week before planting, scatter general fertiliser granules over the area and fork in, then rake

, 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

weedsSpread a layer of compost over borders, around shrubs and along the base of hedgesProtect gunnera from hard frost by covering with straw or similar insulationThin out the top growth on standard roses to prevent damage and wind rockTake hardwood

and suppress weedsWater clumps of tulips and spring bulbs with liquid feed