Let's hope the weather continues to be kind...

• Plant bare root roses in a sunny position

• Prepare ground for hardy annuals

• Trim winter-flowering heathers as the flowers disappear, to prevent the plants becoming leggy

• Complete any pruning of apple and pear trees (leave stone fruits like plums and cherries until summer)

• Mulch perennial vegetables such as asparagus and artichokes with well-rotted manure or garden compost

• Start chitting early potatoes - stand them on end 'eyes-up' in a tray or egg box and place them in a bright, cool, frost-free place

• Towards the end of the month, cut back any perennial grasses that have been left overwinter

• Plan your vegetable crop rotations for the coming season

• Begin sowing seeds in a propagator or warm, light window sill

• Remember to use a greenhouse heater or use fleece to protect overwintering tender plants