Search - Articles

Grow early-maturing potatoes in a bag of compostFork compost into beds to prepare soil for plantingChit potatoes by standing them in trays in a warm bright position until they develop small shootsDig out problem weeds and emerging annual weeds

Pinch out tomato sideshoots developing from the main stemFit automatic vent openers to help control air flow and fit extra low-level louvre vents if requiredTie in tomato shoots to their supports. Water daily to prevent the compost drying out, which

Cut back ornamental miscanthus grass before new shoots start developingTrim back ivy and Virginia creeper from around windows and gutteringClear away dead foliage from perennials, chop it up and add to the compost heapRemove weeds from borders

Rake autumn leaves from lawns and pick them out of bordersPlant new climbers and shrubs into soil that's well dug over and enriched with compost Spray Michaelmas daisies with fungicide to prevent mildewCut down annuals when they've faded, adding them

Collect seed from allium seedheads and sow straight away into seed compostPlant evergreen shrubs and conifer hedgesCarefully dig up gladioli corms and overwinter in cool, dry storage conditionsLift and pot up tender perennials to protect over winter

Collect and compost autumn leaves Cut back suckers growing around the base of treesVisit garden centres to choose bulbs and bedding for spring displaysMow lawns less frequently now grass growth is slowing downComplete new lawn laying projects during

Add old crops and bedding to the compost heapSpike lawns then brush grit into the holes to improve surface drainageCollect seeds from beans and sweet peas to sow next yearFirm soil around newly planted trees and shrubs if they've been loosened

varieties of broad beans and peas under clochesDig up and compost old summer cropsSource bags of composted green waste from local authorities to spread onto veg beds over winterPlant out autumn onion sets and garlicTake hardwood cuttings from fruit bushes

Wash and disinfect bird feeders and tables Collect fallen leaves and add to a leaf bin to compost down Spread fresh gravel or grit around alpine plants Shred prunings and add to your compost heapCollect and empty hoses and sprinklers to store

Take root cuttings of oriental poppies Check stakes and ties are secure on trees and climbersMove containers of shrubs or winter bedding to a sheltered spot when conditions turn very coldPlant new rose bushesEmpty pots of spent annuals and compost