Living in a rural location means that you are likely to be visited by a few animals and birds that would like to eat your plants as they emerge. Discounting molluscs, here is an easy way to ensure your plants are protected using materials that would just be languishing empty at this time of year.

Wire hanging baskets are perfect for this job. The gaps in the basket are usually too large to deter squirrels and pheasants, so line the basket with a little chicken wire and place it upside down over your precious plants. If using it over a pot you may need to wire it in place to stop determined pests from lifting or pushing it out of the way.

Bulbs are the usual target at this time of year, but later in the spring this works really well to stop cats crushing and eating your newly emerging Nepeta. The plants will grow through the gaps in the basket ensuring they never get completely destroyed