HOME & GARDEN


gardening tips


T


ypically a month that is wet and bit- terly cold, but wildlife remains ac- tive in your garden. Look for tracks in the snow created by birds, foxes or even badgers. Birds are getting ready for spring and the dawn chorus begins to get in tune as birds defend their territory. The bird table will remain busy, and you can watch for birds in fl ight, such as geese head- ing north for summer feeding grounds.


Look in the pond, as frogs, toads and newts begin to emerge from hibernation and can be seen in the water. The fi rst spell of sunshine may attract brim- stone butterfl ies and the fl owers start to show in the form of catkins on hazel or alder. Ce- landines, sweet violets and snow drops will light the woodland fl oor and hopefully inspire similar natural fl oral arrangements in the gar- dens. Plant seeds in pots on the kitchen window sill and prune fruit trees, trees such as willow and roses. Trim back full stems of border perennials and place in a sheltered area to protect any mini beasts inside them. Don’t forget to feed garden birds and check for icing over of water. It will help the birds dur- ing the cold weather if you add fruit to the bird table.


Use any cut wood to make woodpiles in the garden for next year.


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