Getting ready

Simple tasks make a big difference

1 Make sure gutters are clear before the autumn rain arrives and water butts start filling up.

2 Tidy the shed, get as much off the floor as possible, and wash trays and pots ready for the next sowing season.

3 Make sure tools are clean and sharp to make autumn tasks such as pruning that much easier.

4 Wipe shading paint from the greenhouse so that maximum sunlight can get to any remaining ripening fruit and veg.