If you have some deciduous climbers which are unruly and overgrown they can be cut hard back to encourage fresh new growth ready to be tied in and spread out.

Cut autumn fruiting raspberry canes to the ground. The top of summer fruiting canes can be cut to a bud above the top support wire.

Cut Cornus, Salix and Cotinus right down to the base to promote vigorous new growth, coloured stems and larger leaves.

New shoots of Hostas, Delphiniums, Lupins and other vulnerable plants need protection from slugs and snails.

Lift and divide overcrowded clumps of Daffodils and other spring-flowering bulbs for a better display next year.

Deadhead Rhododendrons and Azaleas by snapping off the old flowers. This will give the plant a better appearance, stop seed production and promote more flowers next year. Take care not to damage the new leaf growth.

Look out for pests such as lily beetles, snails, aphids and vine weevils, and remove before they do too much harm.

In dry spells water your garden, pots and baskets well in early morning or in the evening.

Plant up containers for autumn interest, using small Conifers, Heathers, Heucheras, bedding plants and other colourful evergreen plants. Some dwarf bulbs add interest for next spring.

If you've been growing squash or pumpkins now is the time to harvest them! They need to be harvested before the first frost otherwise they won't store so well. Depending upon the variety pumpkins can be stored for anywhere between 3-6 months.

If you haven't started already, now is a good time to start putting out extra food for the birds. Help them through the winter when a natural source of food in the garden is scarcer by supplementing their diet with fat balls, seeds and mealworms

if there is a good dry day it is good to keep all your wooden furniture and fencing well maintained. Giving them a coat of oil or preservative now on a nice day will help them look their best for longer.