Fleecey does it

layer of frost protection. Weed the area first, when the ground is not frozen – weeds will be more difficult to remove from hard ground.

Then simply spread your chosen material with a trowel or spade around sensitive plants until you have a layer 5cm-7cm thick. Mediterranean shrubs such as Pittosporum tobira ( Japanese pittosporum), Trachelospermum (star jasmine) and Callistemon (bottlebrush) need proper frost protection over winter.

For palms and ferns, it is most important to protect their central growing point. Pack straw, shredded paper or dry leaves around the crown and wrap with horticultural fleece secured with garden twine.

In colder areas such as northern

a year’s RHS membership and get a free €17 voucher. For £61, loved ones enjoy unlimited days out at the four RHS gardens, entry to more than 200 partner gardens, access to a year of RHS shows, and The Garden magazine each month. Offer runs until December 24 at RHS Gardens, and until December 20 online at rhs.org.uk/gift843.

WEngland and Scotland, wrapping the entire foliage canopy three or four times with fleece as well is advised.

The lower stems of tender climbers, and shrubs hardy down to only 0oc (H3 category), are best packed with insulation and wound round with fleece – wrapping all foliage on shrubs.

Remove wrapping in periods of mild weather to avoid rotting. Check a plant’s hardiness on the label, or via the RHS online plant finder.

The double-insulated liner of these SKYTEC Argon gloves – with foam coating over palms, knuckles and fingers – will keep your loved one’s hands warm and protected. The hardwearing material keeps hands safe, whether planting evergreens for late garden colour or popping winter pansies in window boxes. skytecgloves. com