1. Get to know your soil. You can test the pH of the with a test kit. This can save disappointments later.
2. Destroy weed seedlings. a simple walk around the garden with a garden hoe knocking out weed seedlings before they get too big.
3. Spread organic matter. Spread compost, manure or a mix of the two over the surface of soil. Be careful not to walk on the lawn too much at this stage.
4. Collect decaying leaves. You can start or add to a compost pile with the leaves. Also be aware that hedgehogs may be hibernating under larger piles.
5. Improve drainage of the lawn. if drainage is a problem use a garden fork or a garden aerator to create small holes approximately 15cm deep. Use horticultural sand mixed with soil to fill the holes back up.
6. Protect pot grown shrubs. Remember the roots in pots are above ground level and are vulnerable to damage. Even the pot itself may crack. Use frost protection, bubble wrap or hessian sacking.
7. Check tree ties and stakes. this will be the season for strong winds.
8. Feed the birds. By putting out extra food, gardeners can make a contribution to supporting wildlife over winter.

We will keep adding to the January blog, so please keep checking back.