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The John Innes Horticultural Institute was founded in 1904, 'for the improvement of horticulture by experiment and research'. It was set up with money bequeathed by a London businessman of Scottish descent.John Innes composts were developed

Watch Monty Don's video demonstration on collecting leaves and storing them to create leaf mould, with storage techniques for both large and small gardens.autumnMore on leaf mould and compostingHow to build a leaf heapAdvice on collecting autumn

in the garden, on a balcony or in the greenhouse. Shake compost inside the bag to create an even, pillow shape. Cut a slot out of the bag to expose the compost for planting them into.Loosen the compost in the bag with a hand fork. Push some of the compost

Any plant that grows either completely submerged in, or with leaves and flowers emerging from, water. It may be rooted in the soil or compost under water, or be free floating.

The practice of improving soil, by adding a layer of fertiliser to the surface and allowing it to settle in without digging over. Replacing the top layer of soil with compost.

Give wooden furniture a facelift, sanding smooth then applying teak wood oilCut back climbing plants that are hanging down from arches and pergolas Empty, mix and refill compost bins to improve the composting processWater hydrangeas with a colourant

Trim hedges to keep them neat, then shred and compost the clippingsTop up compost or bark mulches around heathersHoe and hand weed bordersWater hanging baskets and patio containers regularlyPlace orders for bulbs to plant this autumnDeadhead flowers

chathamicaPansies x3Blue glazed pot about 40cm acrossMulti-purpose compostJohn Innes No.3Horticultural gritCrocksMix together two-parts multi-purpose compost with one part John Innes No.3 and one part horticultural grit. This mix will provide lots

leaves of the low-growing bugle will soon hide the compost, and in spring and early summer, dark blue flowers will add to the scheme. all year roundApril - August20 minutesJapanese maple, Acer palmatum dissectum x1Bugle, Ajuga 'Burgundy Glow' x4Tall

Shrubs and perennials planted permanently in containers need good quality compost if they are to survive for more than a couple of years. The addition of loam-based compost such as John Innes no.3 will retain a good open structure for plant roots