The two hardy fuchsia in the front garden have recovered well from the cold and wind

Flowering well. Second time? I’ve still not seen this plant anywhere else.

It looks very good at this time of year. It’s a shame it’s dull in winter. Could I grow bulbs through it?

See also March 18, June 17

Flowering well for the second time after being cut right back after the first flowering in Spring

All the mahonias I’ve grown have been different. This one goes off like a firework at this time of year

The two yellow brugmansias I have in 35cm diameter by 27cm (26 litre) plastic pots are just beginning to flower, but are very pot-bound. They need watering at least once a day, and up to three times a day in hot weather. I rang the RHS advice service to ask about root pruning. The advisor recommended sawing off a couple of inches of roots from around the side and the bottom of the plants when they are coming into growth in the spring. If I am feeling cautious, I could do half the plant one year and the other half the next. This root pruning should be done every two or three years, but some growers do it every year. The plants will still need frequent watering.

Montbretia can be rather dull, but it’s attractive in loose, fresh plantings, so I’ll dig out the old clump.

Monty Don on Gardener’s World suggested cutting back oriental poppies, so I gave it a try.