Karen Maris, by email A ANNE SAYS A winter lawn-seed mix should germinate at soil temperatures above 5°C, so get yourself a soil thermometer and watch the forecast. But don’t sow if the ground is wate

IF YOUR LAWN IS LOOKING MORE BOGGY THAN VERDANT, HERE’S HOW TO RESCUE IT

Our experts will help you get the best from your garden

The garden is quiet in January and February, but there are plenty of tasks to get on with. Some jobs are needed at this time of year while others, if carried out now, will help you for the gardening y

Before pond plants start growing again and frogs start spawning, give your pond area a clear up. Cut back old leaves and flowers stems and compost them to make way for new growth and to prevent them e

Make sure enough natural food is available for birds during winter by growing berrying trees and shrubs, and leaving seedheads standing. Bird feeders and tables can spread disease, giving some birds a