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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

rectangular or square pond can still be wildlife friendly. Straight edges can easily be disguised with plants, both in and outside of the pond.To attract the widest range of wildlife, create areas of shallow water (around 2-3cm deep), which are essential

in local streams and rivers, promoting algae and upsetting fish, and too much can kill plants. Some detergents also contain sodium, which can inhibit plant growth. Almost all detergents contain surfactants, which help to break the water's surface tension

by blackspot or rustSet up automatic watering systems for potted plants when going on holidayTop up water levels in ponds and aquatic featuresAround the gardenDeadhead flowers of lady's mantleWater camelliasBuy bulbs for autumn plantingFlowersPick plums

Layer long sideshoots of border carnations into soil prepared with potting compost. Make a slit in each stem, peg down to hold firm, and wait to rootWater plants, such as roses, climbers and shrubs growing against dry sunny wallsPlant bulbs of the Madonna

-native plants can take over our ponds and deoxygenate the water. If dumped in municipal or wild ponds, streams or rivers they can smother native plants, clog waterways, exacerbate flooding and harm fish. The website gives clear advice on identifying

, chaenomeles, pyracantha and kerriaRegularly water newly planted trees, roses, shrubs and hedging Finish planting out gladioli corms in groups or drifts in bordersSpread shredded bark mulches around established shrubs and trees to conserve soil moisture

Buy pansies and other winter bedding plug plants to grow on under coverDamp down the greenhouse floor every morning on hot daysWater plants in pots and growing bags every morning, and again at night if necessaryAdd liquid feed to at least one

from cold winter winds. Ensure the soil is free-draining, as plants can freeze if left standing in pools of icy water.Plug plants, seedlings or seed of winter salad, including corn salad, land cress, lettuce, wild rocket and mustardTrowel and forkWatering

levels in pools and remove water weeds with a netHoe borders on hot sunny days to remove developing weed seedlingsContinue watering anything newly planted until it has establishedCut verges along the roadside to prevent plants obscuring the view