Traditional autumn or spring planting presents none of these difficulties. All that is required is that each plant is firmly planted in a hole which is of sufficient dimensions to ensure that the fibrous roots are not cramped or congested. Some herbaceous plants become totally dormant during the winter and do not even leave a reminder of their presence in the form of a woody with­ered flower stalk. These all require marking with a small cane after planting. The soil all looks the same once the plants are in as it is very difficult to remember what was planted where. Liberal applications of slug pellets amongst the most vulnerable plants like lupins and delphiniums is a necessary pre­caution, for plants like this produce succu­lent shoots during early spring which are the delight of these slimy predators. A ring of weathered soot or ash around each group of vulnerable plants is a good slug deterrent.

Freshly acquired plants are ready pre­pared for planting, but if you are reorganiz­ing your own border you will obviously wish to retain some of each of your existing stock. Most will be capable of division, the easiest and most reliable means of increas­ing them and ensuring that they remain true to type. Some border plants produce single vigorous tap roots and are indivisible. These are the ones that are usually reproduced from seed or short stem cuttings. Plants with an abundant growth of fibrous root are the ones most suited to division. Established clumps of perennials should be carefully lifted with a garden fork and as much of the surplus soil as possible shaken off the roots.