Don’t forget about the strong winter winds and cut back any long branches on roses, shrubs and trees which may get blown around and become damaged. A light pruning now would help to reduce any major damage later.

If it snows, remember to knock off the snow from the tops of conifers and topiary plants. If the snow is left on the plants then the branches may break or bend and cause irreparable damage.

Plant shrubs and hedging as you, your garden and the wildlife will benefit greatly. Shrubs offer versatility, value for money and are attractive to wildlife. They provide a vital role in the garden structure and give a continuous presence throughout the year to create the “backbone of the garden”. During the winter when most of the herbaceous perennials, bulbs and bedding have disappeared, the shrubs provide the mainstay to the garden. When the shrubs are correctly chosen and planted in the correct location the garden can become low maintenance or ‘easy gardening’. In general shrubs need less maintenance from spraying, dead-heading, staking and watering (once they are established) than an herbaceous scheme. Click here for more information about shrubs.

Shrubs are very versatile as they can also be planted into containers to define awkward spaces such as steps, doorways and corners. For the instant garden it is possible to plant more mature specimens as shrubs will transplant very well but aftercare with watering and feeding will be needed.

If you're unsure about watering, check out our Watering Guidelines.

Using shrubs as hedges can create a formal or informal look from deciduous to evergreen whilst added colour from flowers, foliage and fruits. Hedges are better than fences as they are more effective at filtering wind and noise and provide a natural living feature. Hedges help to preserve plant diversity and provide a habitat for wildlife which is very important in urban areas.

The choice of a hedging plant is vital as many benefits for security and wildlife can be achieved by planting the appropriate plant.

To protect against cats, squirrels and humans and allow the birds to nest in peace choose:

• Berberis
• Hawthorn
• Holly
• Blackthorn
• Pyracantha
• Rugose Rose

In order to encourage wildlife plant:

• Berberis stenophylla
• Buddleia
• Hazel
• Elaeagnus ebbingei
• Lavender
• Lilac

For more advice on hedges and screening, visit our dedicated Hedges page.