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freezing around parsnipsTake hardwood cuttings from currants and gooseberriesNet cabbages and other brassicas to protect them from pigeon damagePlace forcing jars over crowns of seakaleContinue winter digging, adding spent mushroom compost to improve

to keep birds awayPrune overgrown laurel, yew and camellias back hard to rejuvenate themWrap straw or bracken around the base of tender shrubs and climbers to protect them the from coldCheck stakes and ties are secure on trees and climbers

farmyard manure or other composted green wasteUse cloches to protect winter peas, beans and saladsLift and pot up chicory roots to force chiconsPlant new fruit trees, bushes and cane fruitsBring potted bay trees under cover if conditions turn very cold

-sown sweet peas to promote bushier growthBring pots or glasses of prepared hyacinths indoors to flowerProtect potted peach trees from winter rain and peach leaf curl by bringing under cover

Carrots can be stored for winter use in a number of ways. On well-drained soils they can be left in the ground, protected from the cold by a thick layer of straw, bracken or soil.Carrots stored in this way can be difficult to harvest, however, so it

Thanks to our warmer climate, most of us can now enjoy traditionally tropical plants in our summer gardens. Canna 'Tropicanna' is surprisingly tough for such a lush-looking plant, and can survive outdoors all year round (with a little protection

a froth of pretty white flowers.Top up the pot with compost, firming it around the plant roots with your fingers.AdamSlugs and snails love hostas so be sure to protect the plants or you'll be left with leaves that look like doilies.More inspiration

protective wall close by; otherwise, insulate the box with bubble polythene to protect the roots from frost.AdamCut the myrtle back in spring and give it a tidy-up after flowering. Keep a check on the campanulas as they will spread vigorously. Cut them back

be ready to cover them with horticultural fleece - or make a frame for permanent protection.Newly-sown row of carrotsHorticultural fleeceTo make a protective frame: horticultural fleece or polythene sheeting, lengths of pressure-treated timber approximately

best all year round.Grass seed or turfRakeSpadespring or autumn30 minutesJune - AugustSow the patch with an appropriate seed mix, sprinkling half the grass seeds in one direction and the rest in the other. Lightly rake over the seed and protect