With the solstice upon us the trees outside, like supermarkets and garden centres already well advanced in their prep for spring. Trees always plan several weeks in advance of us.
If you are already tired of cold and darkness give yourself a boost by going on a bud safari to see how close we are to the light returning - the trees know it better than we do.
Tip- Magnolias are amongst the most impatient for spring, their furry buds are already plump with anticipation, ready to firework when the signal is given.
But be careful an old saying is that as the light strengthens so does the cold. January is frequently much colder than December, too eager buds may be in for a shock.