Many desirable low-growing shrubs get irritatingly tatty through the winter months, but if they're cut back hard to tidy them up, winter cold and wet will often polish them off altogether. Now is the time to step forth with shears and secateurs.
The arch-offender is usually Santolina, with its less than endearing tendency to fall apart. Cut it neatly off just above ground level and dispose of the debris. Your eye will soon turn to Artemisia species for the same treatment.
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Dawn Chorus: A Blue Plaque for Marc Bolan, holidaying in the Caribbean with Francis Ford Coppola and a history of the National Gallery in 25 picturesPlus the best of the property pages, and how the railways will save the countryside.
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Game, set, match: 12 of the world’s most beautiful tennis courtsFrom Italy to Indonesia, when it comes to hotel amenities, a picturesque tennis court will always trump a 24-hour gym. So, before you book your next holiday, take a look at our pick of the 12 best.
