Dear subscriber

As the frenzy of Christmas approaches – with even greater pressure this year to lay on the perfect celebration – it’s so vital to build time outdoors into your days.

The positive benefits of our connection to the natural world are undisputed, and the latest thinking is we need at least two hours a week, preferably more, in green spaces, for our mental wellbeing. (It’s also good for our immune system, as I learned from Dr Michael Mosley for a new podcast on gardening for health).

As gardeners, we have the escape valve at our back doors. And while it takes little effort to step out into warm, summer days, it’s so rewarding to be outdoors now in the crisp (even damp) air, spotting the early signs of life coming through.

We have the perfect excuse, in this issue, for you to venture out for some garden foraging, with our wreath projects that are full of charm but deceptively simple to make. Take it further with our best Boxing Day walks in glorious gardens. And don’t miss Rekha’s delicious way with homegrown sprouts (yes, really!) – a veg that’s always best when picked just moments from cooking.

We bring you exciting news (on p22) of Gardeners’ World’s winter return – by popular demand! Look out for three*new episodes with Monty and the team, on 10, 17 and 24 December , coming up on BBC2. So, from everyone here at Gardeners’ World, we wish you a happy, healthy and nature-filled Christmas.