Diarmuid Gavin: These herbaceous heroes are perfect for welcoming the spring

With the possibility of another Beast from the East in late February or early March, we are still in wintry times. However, we can use the time to plan for spring and what we might plant as the soil begins to warm and daylight hours extend. I’ve been looking at my herbaceous planting palette and picking out my favourites for this year. I value those that flower for long periods, have attractive foliage and are easy-going in their soil and maintenance requirements. Here are some of those that will be popping up in my garden schemes this year.