Garden

fence posts

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The best screens are those that don't seem to be screens at all; this is a perfect example. Layers of deciduous, evergreen and seasonal color make this an eye-catching combination whether it's used to create some privacy, keep deer at bay or simply capture interest as a striking vignette

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Keep deer and rabbits away. The gardening season begins in earnest in March. While discovering new sprouts, spray on deer and rabbit repellant to any growth that might become a tasty treat, such as the foliage, buds and blooms of tulips (Tulipa 'Easter Moon' foliage is shown). Keep spraying on repellant as foliage grows and buds form, but keep in mind that some grazing might occur anyway.

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Notice the bees. On a warm day, take time to sit in a protected part of the garden and watch the first bees visiting the early bloomers, such as crocus (Crocus chrysanthus 'Princess Beatrix'). Soon we'll be as busy as those bees with spring garden chores.

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Not all March blooms are tiny. Late in March the Christmas rose (Helleborus niger) opens its pristine white blooms. The flowers last a long time and age to an attractive dusky pink.

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Near the end of March, lawns turn blue, as a sea of Siberian squill (Scilla siberica) blooms.

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Bunches of early crocuses open wide in the sun. If you have problems with squirrels digging up and eating crocus bulbs, plant Crocus tommasinianus, such as these 'Barr's Purple', which squirrels generally find unpalatable.

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Joining snowdrops (Galanthus sp) and winter aconites (Eranthis sp), the little bulbous irises, such as Iris reticulata 'Pixie', shown here, unfurl their exotic petals in shades of purple, blue and yellow. Some are fragrant, urging the gardener to his or her knees. It may be necessary to pull back winter mulch to protect the buds and blooms from slugs that forage on warmer days.

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