What to do this month Clear leaves, revive lawns and lift and divide perennials to make more

Leaves can make paths and patios wet and slippery in winter. Collect them from paving and from lawns, where leaves can smother the grass. Put the leaves in black plastic bin liners, pierce the bottom and sides of the bags to let air and water in and stash them behind the shed. Every now and again, check that the leaves haven’t dried out. If they have, drench with a watering can or hose. It’ll take a year or so to produce friable dark brown leafmould that’s perfect for adding to potting compost or using as a mulch in woodland borders.