Spring Into Action

March at last, says Will Clark. Our gardens are springing into action and so must we

FOR keen gardeners, March is a special month. Spring bulbs are flowering, buds are swelling on trees and shrubs, and herbaceous borders are coming back to life. Weather-wise, we’re never sure what March will bring, so please bear in mind the conditions when it comes to sowing or planting.

Let’s start with those borders. Divide congested clumps of perennials now, before they put on too much growth. Discard or compost the older, central part of the plant, and replant the outer sections in new positions, keeping one for the original spot.

Pull out any annual weeds as you go along, as this could save you hours of work in months to come. If there are gaps in your borders, there are plenty of summer flowering bulbs and corms you can plant now - gladioli, crocosmia and dahlia, to name just a few.