I’ve been getting into the garden whenever possible to tidy the borders. The most unexpected discovery was clusters fresh shoots on the lemon verbena – some years it is well into April before these appear. Admittedly they do look a bit pale and wan, but that is hardly surprising given their untimely appearance. I don’t worry about precocious bulbs and spring flowers, they can manage the cold but if and when the cold finally arrives, I do fear for this tender plant.