Despite the inclement conditions that winter brings, there are many things that people ought to be doing in their garden in order to protect their green space.
Indeed, before the unpleasant weather really sets in gardening enthusiasts should look at their current collection of seeds and, if necessary, get new ones ordered.
And, in an article for the Daily Telegraph, Val Bourne, RHS floral and dahlia panel member, suggests that horticulturists must pay particular attention to the use-by dates printed on packets, as those that are beyond the best before point are unlikely to be able to germinate.
"Be very vigilant with lettuce and parsnip seeds, as both have short viability periods," Ms Bourne points out. However, large seeds, like beans, ought to last for longer, provided that they have been stored somewhere dry and in an airtight container.
Now is also an ideal time for people to tidy up their garden shed and ensure they have sufficient supplies of sundries, including gloves, canes and labels, in time for the spring.
"It is traditional to wipe over all metal tools with a damp, slightly oily cloth. Treat and preserve wooden handles with boiled linseed oil, as it loses its stickiness far more quickly than raw linseed oil," she states.
In addition, gardeners are advised to check recently-planted trees and shrubs for any exposed roots created by the substantial amount of rain that fell this autumn. In such cases, people should cover the roots with a layer of soil or loam-based compost to protect their plants from any further drops in temperature.
Last month, garden designer Mark Diacono suggested in an article for the publication that now is a good time to clear the garden of loose leaves and weeds before the cold weather really sets in.
Come to MowDIRECT and you'll find an extensive range of garden vacuums and blowers that will help with essential tasks like leaf clearance during the colder months.
