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weedsSpread a layer of compost over borders, around shrubs and along the base of hedgesProtect gunnera from hard frost by covering with straw or similar insulationThin out the top growth on standard roses to prevent damage and wind rockTake hardwood

and suppress weedsWater clumps of tulips and spring bulbs with liquid feed

, trimming off faded blooms, digging out weeds and replenishing mulches of gritKeep a few bedding plants in reserve to plug gaps where disasters strike

and aquatic featuresScoop water weed from ponds with a small netRemove suckers from roses or around the base of treesSummer prune wisteria by shortening all long sideshootsStake dahlias and late-flowering chrysanthemumsTrim privet, laurel, conifers and other

Prepare soil ready for sowing a lawn or laying turf during September and OctoberTop up water levels in pebble fountains and poolsDeal with problem lawn weeds, digging them out or applying herbicideOrder spring-flowering bulbs to plant this autumn

you want them to form autumn hipsTrim lavender immediately after flowering to maintain its shape, but avoid cutting back too far into old woodHoe weeds regularly to prevent seedlings establishingTrim conifer hedges, evergreen hedges and topiary

Improve soil ready for sowing a lawn from seed during showery autumn weatherHoe and hand weed bordersOrder sweet pea seeds for autumn sowing in potsPinch out the tips of wallflowers to promote bushier growthBuy spring-flowering bulbs like tulips, crocuses

Plant new fruit trees and bushesTidy strawberry beds, cutting back old foliage and congested runners and removing weedsPot up a few roots of mint and bring under cover for winter pickingsImprove soil, digging over bare ground and forking in bulky, well

, including black, white and red currantsTidy strawberry beds, removing unwanted runners, old leaves and developing weeds

Winter prune apple treesPrune away stems of autumn-fruiting raspberries at soil levelPrepare sites to plant new fruit trees and bushes, by improving soil with lots of organic matterHoe bare areas to remove weed seedlingsUse straw to prevent soil