FUTURE PROOF Before the autumnal weather sets in, ensure that outdoor wooden buildings and features have been treated against the elements. Protek’s Timber Eco Shield will waterproof fencing, summerhouses to log stores, protecting the wood, and when used

ON THE BOOKSHELF

While now we use plants in the home largely for decorative purposes, in the 17th century their presence in every room was multifaceted – used for flavouring food, brewing, distilling, providing scent, washing linen, warding off pests, treating ailments – such as feverfew for depression and headaches – and much more. In

(£25, Bodleian Library) Margaret Willes referred to household journals from the period to piece together how many plants were used in various parts of the house, and includes recipes for the likes of flower syrups and wormwood ale.