Create a fancy framework

IN WINTER the productive garden reveals its bare bones, so a strong framework of beds bordered with step-over fruit trees, herringbone brick paths, ornamental obelisks and decorative design details such as ornamental cloches, rhubarb forcers and weathered terracotta pots will create plenty of exciting focal points to look at during the less fruitful months. Change pot displays each season, using spring-flowering tulips, narcissi and hyacinths in spring, followed by summery pelargoniums or cut-andcome-again salads, which last well into autumn. Finally, create containers for winter interest using ornamental cabbages, cyclamen and hellebores. Encouraging birds into the garden is a more eco-friendly way to eliminate unwanted pests than using chemicals, especially if you’re growing edible plants. To draw them in, create a bird feeding station complete with water bath, and plant a few large evergreen shrubs so the birds have safe shelter. Don’t forget that topiary and box hedges can create an attractive evergreen element, turning a relaxed cottage garden into a smart but formal potager.