Keep off!

The weather is still presenting some challenges and although there is much to do in the borders there is no point compacting the soil and subsequently ruining the structure - so stay off is my advice. So once again, it's working from paths wherever possible.

At one of my gardens, one plant that is in need of some attention is Cotoneaster horizontalis. Over the years it has gradually encroached it's way onto the path / driveway and becoming rather messy.

The difficulty is trying to ensure the layers of herringbone patterned stems are maintained whilst pruning to keep it within bounds.

Some main branches were completely removed and selective stems cut back to appropriate places. In the end it looked much better and, without the loss of its distinctive habit.

If a plant has totally over stayed its welcome, it may be necessary to cut it right back to ground level and start the framework, once again, from scratch. 

The mild weather has continued to advance plant growth and their flowers. Here we have a pulmonaria (common nicknames such as Soldiers & Sailors, Lungwort, Jerusalem Cowslip and Adam and Eve to name but a few...take your pick!) providing a pleasing splash of blue to this moist, part-shady area of the garden.