Right now, the winter stage is set and the excesses of last summer are centre stage. The overweight hydrangea heads are closer to the ground than ever and a single pink rose bud fights for survival in the incessant rain. I don’t have any strong views about gardens in January although I get excited when I see the snowdrops start to appear. For me, this signals longer days and getting ready to welcome carpets of vibrant crocus blooms – both of which I love.

It wouldn’t be right to dismiss the glorious berries of winter, the super fragrant flowers of the sarcococca (with its shiny black berries) growing close to our front door or the amazing subtleties of our hellebores. There’s something quite magical about the hellebores with their lush, dark green leaves and almost translucent petals. They seem to come from nowhere and unfold to reveal the delicate shades of an understated watercolour. But for me it’s the snowdrops which symbolise new beginnings and always make me smile.

Then as the daffodils begin to tire, spring bursts into action like a freshly fragrant bath bomb and we find ourselves spoiled for choice. It’s almost theatrical – blousy magnolia flowers seem to appear overnight, egged on by little clumps of primroses and the host of exhausted daffodils. But right now (and when the rain stops) it’s time to inspect the damage of previous seasons and scare off the slugs before they get the opportunity to make a home in our hostas.

I love the garden and the opportunities it provides for relaxation, inspiration and conversation. Why not get in touch and tell me about your favourite garden and what it means to you?