Ornamentals

There are plenty of dahlias to choose from.

Plant dahlia tubers about 7cm deep, 30cm apart in full sun. They do best in rich, well-drained soil but will tolerate other soil types. Incorporate plenty of compost or well-rotted manure into the soil before planting, keep wellwatered and feed with a potash-rich fertiliser once flowers appear. To maximise flowering, avoid nitrogen-rich fertilisers.

Continue planting gladioli for a long summer-flowering period. Remove dead flowers from tulips to stop them setting seed; rather their energy is best directed toward growing the bulb and its offsets.

Do not remove (or mow) any bulbs’ leaves for at least eight weeks after flowering. Bulb regeneration is through photosynthesis via the leaves. Removal of leaves is only done for aesthetics not for the health of the bulb.

Feed spring-flowering bulbs with a liquid fertiliser, or mulch around them with compost.

Prune flowering shrubs and trees after flowering. Give fuchsias a good prune to encourage flowering.

Treat yourself to a day or portion thereof of gardening heaven by going on a garden tour – November is usually full of them. They are also sure to inspire you to try something different in your own garden, and your entry fee will be helping a local charity.

Keep new lawns damp – dryness is fatal to young grass.