BRING IN TENDER PLANTS

ANY tender plants you’re keeping outdoors should be brought in as soon as possible.

Autumn frosts are seldom enough to cause lasting damage, but temperatures may drop below 0c — and that could be fatal.

Large plants can be pruned down before moving into a greenhouse or conservatory or onto a windowsill. But, before doing so, check each carefully for signs of any pests, particularly aphids.

These multiply fast in warmer places, so deal with pests before you move the plant inside. Contact pesticides, such as Deltamethrin (Baby Bio houseplant Bug Killer), should be enough to kill small aphid infestations.

Cut away any over-long stems or old foliage and flowers before bringing these plants indoors.