A special message to our readers

These are strange times, the like of which most of us have never known. Here at Garden News we understand that for many of our readers, especially those over 70, they’re worrying times, too. Self-isolating or withdrawing from society for an extended period isn’t a pleasant thought.

The most important thing is that we keep ourselves and others as safe as possible. The coming weeks and months are going to be difficult and unsettling. Yet as gardeners we are actually very fortunate. The pastime we already love is, in fact, one of the very best ways to occupy our time, and now we are in spring I’m quite certain we all have a lot to do!

But if you’re in your garden you’re almost certainly there on your own (or with your husband or wife), and you are outside. The health benefits of gardening, both physical and mental, are already well documented.

There’s little better that we can do – so let’s use the time to create wonderful gardens across the country – and please send us pictures of how you’re doing!

Garden News will continue as usual but some things unfortunately need to be curtailed – our problem solver phone line won’t be in operation for the time being, and replying to queries may take longer than usual.

We also appreciate many of you won’t be going out to buy a magazine so we’ve set up a hassle-free fourweek subscription service so the magazine will be delivered to your door – what’s more you even save money as your four issues will cost just £4.50. Just call 01858 438884 or visit www.greatmagazines.co.uk, quoting reference AGAA..

Also, if you’re unable to visit your local garden centre, please take advantage of the great mail order offers that our advertisers have in this issue. And the Garden News Shop (www. gardennewsshop.co.uk) is a brilliant place to shop for all your needs.

Most importantly, please look after yourselves and your loved ones. We’ve testing times ahead but the garden is the best place in which to spend it.