Diarmuid Gavin: The best plants to buy in May to get your garden ready for summer

As we finally enjoyed some spring weather towards the end of April, nature has responded in kind. Buds are swelling and many deciduous trees have unfurled their fresh foliage. The newly-born leaves are pristine, shiny delights, untouched by wind, sun, rain, pollution or pests. The juvenile foliage of trees such as birch and maple is delicate and trembles in a light breeze.