How should I do my own tree-cycling?

My council does not recycle Christmas trees. Can I do it for myself? – Malcolm, via email DAVID: Personally, I believe it’s better to get a tree professionally recycled. If your council’s not taking trees, try your local supermarket, DIY superstore, garden centre or park. from a garden centre and easily installed with a drill and some wall plugs and screws.

If you’re buying a new window box, make sure to take the correct measurements of your window – choose one that matches the style of your house or window, and that has holes for drainage.

The next thing to do is to pick the plants for your winter window box.

The best way is to look around your local garden centre and pick up some outdoor plants that are already in bud or in flower.

Try to choose varying heights and colours to add interest.

There are lots of flowering heather varieties, and winter aconite brings a lovely splash of yellow.

Dwarf evergreen plants will add some welcome foliage interest – while pansies and violas are always a winter colour staple.

For something a little wackier you could try ornamental kale or cabbage. These will reward you with a vibrant purple or gold colour that intensifies during colder weather.

Herbs are great for window boxes if you like edible gardening – evergreen varieties such as creeping rosemary, thyme or sage will provide you with plenty of sprigs to snip off for your roast dinners.

Check whether your box is mostly shaded or in sun throughout the day, and always try to find plants that suit the conditions you have.

If your window opens outwards you might need to plant low-growing varieties – or alternatively lower the position of your window box – to ensure your window doesn’t take all the tops off when you open it.