Jobs to do

■ We’re only days away from Christmas and yet there are still quite a few things the energetic gardener can do.

■ Check to see if there are any slightly tender container plants still outdoors and find them a new frost-free home.

■ Clear lawns of decaying leaves to help the grass receive as much light as possible in the darkest days of the year.

■ Unless you want them to hold on to their old leaves until next spring, prune overgrown deciduous hedges such as beech, pictured.

■ Inspect stored fruit; any showing signs of damage or disease should be used or discarded.

■ If you’re feeling particularly energetic, finish off any winter digging, incorporating plenty of well-rotted manure, old compost or other soil enricheners.