Pruning, dividing and planting some wildlife-friendly plants

The native 'old man’s beard' or traveller's joy' (Clematis vitalba), as it is variously known, doesn't need pruning to encourage flowers but if it is challenging your patience you can cut it back by two-thirds this month. It is best left bushy, however, as it is a good nesting site for birds.

Ivies that are threatening to grow into undesirable places such as around windows and gutters can be pruned once flowering has finished. Go easy on them, however, as they are a favourite hibernation site for insects. Birds will nest in larger, more mature specimens and spiders and harvestmen also enjoy the shelter, as well as the plethora of insects that dwell there.

Snakeshead fritillary (Fritillaria meleagris) bulbs can be planted now. They will produce beautiful, waxy, nodding bells around April. The nectar and pollen will attract butterflies, bees & bumblebees. Between now and February is ideal for dividing lily-of-the-valley, ensuring plenty of pollen for bees in spring.