“But as we move into early summer, we start to lose some of that magic of spring and need to add in some shrubs that will extend interest and colour into summer,” writes Joanne Young.

“Their bold foliage, which comes in a variety of greens, blues and golds, makes them ideal for creating structure and contrast in shade gardens,” writes Joanne Young.

“The longevity of a plant is partially determined by how well a plant has been pruned over the years. Most evergreens need pruning yearly to stay within the size and scale of most landscapes,” writes Joanne Young.

“Whether you live in a bustling city apartment, a suburban home or out in the country, container gardening allows you to create vibrant, green spaces with minimal fuss,” writes Joanne Young.

“A decline in earthworm populations due to hammerhead worms can negatively affect agriculture, gardens and ecosystems. We need to be diligent in controlling this invasive species if we want to keep it at bay,” writes Joanne Young.

“Whether you’re creating sharp lines for a contemporary feel or soft curves for a more natural look, a well-edged garden shows attention to detail and care,” writes Joanne Young.

“After the winter that we had, they have never been more beautiful than ever. There is something about seeing those fresh, green leaves start to push through the ground, only to be followed by the brilliant shades of yellows, reds, pinks and purples,” writes Joanne Young.

“The joy of spring isn’t just about the change in weather; it’s about the profound sense of rebirth that touches everything around us,” writes Joanne Young.

“During the growing season, grasses are a very low-maintenance plant that requires little attention. In the spring, though, a little bit of effort is needed to keep your grasses healthy and thriving,” writes Joanne Young.

“Rain gardens slow down the rush of water from these hard surfaces, allowing it to naturally soak into the ground,” writes Joanne Young. “For every inch of rain that falls on a surface area of 1,000 square feet, approximately 600 gallons of rainwater are generated.”

Proper pruning not only keeps your rose bushes looking neat and well-maintained but also ensures they remain healthy, vibrant and capable of producing abundant blooms.

“If you are one of those romantics who cannot resist the beauty of a rose or their fragrance brings back a slew of memories of days gone by, then David Austin English roses are a must-add to your garden this year,” writes Joanne Young.

From weigelas and hydrangeas to lilacs and sweetspires, Joanne Young shares her favourite new cultivars that’ll make a welcome new addition to your garden this spring.

Every year, there are countless numbers of new plants being released to tempt us gardeners. These new and improved varieties have been tried and tested for several years before being released for sale. Joanne Young reviews some of the new, exciting releases.

For gardeners who have been working on adding to their outdoor space but feel dissatisfied with the results, what is missing is the sense of flow, writes Joanne Young: “It is the sense of flow that creates unity and peacefulness in the landscape.”

“I must admit, as one who grew up on a farm, I love the many “observations” that have been passed down through the generations,” writes Joanne Young. “Most of them can be confirmed, scientifically speaking, but at first glance can seem questionable.”