First, harden off tender or half-hardy plants over a couple of weeks before planting. Do this by putting plants outside during mild days, bringing them in at night if cold is forecast, then leaving out during mild nights, and finally planting outside (once frosts have finished, in the case of tender plants).

Then, thoroughly soak the plant roots for several hours before planting out to give them a good start.

We were going to write more detailed guides about hardening off and planting different types of plant, but Crocus have done it already, so for further advice and tips on planting shrubs, trees, hedges, climbers, perennials, bulbs, bedding or your pond, take a look at their how to plant successfully.