At this time of year, I start to dream about gardens. Some of my favorites are British because I love the wonderful naturalized and romantic gardens, particularly Stourhead in Wiltshire, England with its faux temple and lovely vistas. One garden that I am keen to visit is Sissinghurst in England. Any comments on it?

An interesting garden in the Loire Valley (France) is Villandry. It is elaborately designed, pruned and curlicued but not many are not flowers but vegetables! Well worth seeing. Be sure to go up to the highest lookout for a great view. http://www.gardenvisit.com/ge/villan.htm

An unexpected garden in the Gaspe region of Quebec, Canada is Reford Gardens. There is a microclimate that allows (relatively) tender plants to grow. It's been years since my last visit - time to go again http://www.jardinsmetis.com/english/

Weather isn't always so kind to gardens - Butchart Gardens in Victoria, Vancouver Island, Canada has had an unusual snowfall and is busy digging out. http://tinyurl.com/3u7lc

Frances Toronto, Canada