Peter Dowdall: The shrubs and trees that need spring haircuts

We can prune many 'winter interest' plantings like willow and dogwood as we prepare for the new season

Not only do the catkins of willow look beautiful at the moment, they are also a critical part of the garden tapestry, says Peter Dowdall. Picture: iStock

It's round about now before the spring growth begins in earnest that we can begin to cut back many of our shrubs and trees that we grow for winter interest in the garden.

I'm talking firstly about willow and dogwoods which can be “coppiced” or “stooled” at this time of the year.