Weatherwatch

From dull grey days to periods of sparkling autumn sunshine, October’s weather is a mixed bag. Stormy weather could be a problem, so pay attention to staking newly planted trees and taller grasses.

Also, as days become shorter, cooler nights bring the possibility of frost. level with the surrounding grass and water in. You can also try lifting and rotating patches of damaged turf at the edge of the lawn – grass should then grow into the bare patch (see above).

✿ Clear leaves little and often as soon as they start to fall. Under a layer of damp leaves, grass can’t photosynthesise and also becomes vulnerable to fungal diseases. See p88 for our Buyers’ Guide to leaf vacs and blowers.