- Shrubs normally pruned hard in the spring - such as Buddleja davidii, Cornus alba and Lavatera - can be cut back by half now, to prevent wind rock and neaten their appearance. Protect newly planted trees, hedges and shrubs from wind and cold. A temporary netting windbreak is helpful where there is no natural shelter. Straw, bracken, or something similar can be used to pack around deciduous plants and protect them from frost.
- Plant tulip bulbs by the end of November. Some Tulips persist year to year whereas some perform less well and are treated as bedding, and are replaced every year. Following on from planting your tulips, other winter bedding plants such as Wallflowers, Forget-Me-Nots, Bellis, Primula, Viola and Winter Pansies can be planted to provide maximum colour next spring. When doing this plant them into well-prepared ground, or pots containing a suitable multi-purpose compost.
- Ponds. Start feeding your fish with wheatgerm based foods once the cold weather arrives. You can still divide hardy waterlilies and pond plants and cut back overgrown marginal plants, if required. Rake out fallen leaves or shake off those that have gathered on protective netting. Give winter protection to Gunnera by cutting off old leaves and placing them over the crown of the plants.
- Quick fixes. Use a seasonal bonfire - where this is allowed - to dispose of excess debris unfit for composting. Stop winter moth damage to fruit trees by using grease bands around the trunks. Raise containers onto pot feet to prevent waterlogging. Insulate outdoor containers from frost - bubble wrap works well. Cover brassicas with netting if pigeons are a problem.
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