Greener Garden Choices

To put the garden to bed … or not?

Autumn was traditionally the time for cutting away all the summer growth, clearing the decks for the following year.

These days the favoured approach is to wait until late winter to remove all growth.

Doing this can leave valuable shelter for hibernating wildlife, and food for those that are still active.
Old growth can protect plants from damage by frosts and snow - the old shoots and leaves being sacrificed while the heart of the plant remains unscathed.

Fallen leaves can also cover the soil, helping to trap in warmth.

However, anything showing signs of disease should always be removed to avoid reinfection. It can also be necessary to cut down some taller plants to avoid them getting broken or root rocked in winter winds.

• Get pruning tutorials at www.youtube.com @KatiesGardenPlantCentre