Mosses and lichens

Mosses and lichens may not sound very glamorous, but some of our lowliest and most primitive native plants are quite enchanting when you look at the detail very closely. Now that the leaves of the overshadowing higher plants are no longer competing with them for light, they really thrive, so take the time this month to do them justice

Colonies of lichen are an encouraging sign because it indicates that the air in the area is getting cleaner.

Winter care

As further cold nights bring the final leaves tumbling from the trees, rake lawns, sweep paths and patios, and pick up leaves from borders and rock gardens, where their soggy mass can smother tender alpines. Leaves also provide shelter for slugs and snails, so clear them up without delay. However, take care not to disturb any nesting hedgehogs.

Repairs

Repair fences, trellises and wooden features. Once annual climbers have died away and perennial ones have lost their leaves, treat timber with wood colour or preservative. Replace loose posts and those rotting at their base before they collapse and cause greater damage.

Soil conditioning

Where areas have been cleared, start digging over and conditioning the soil. It is worth carrying out a soil test now to check the acidity or alkalinity of it and work out the soil pH. Most plants grow best in a neutral soil, so make some adjustments if necessary by applying a lime dressing to very acid soils, or sulphur chips to alkaline ones.

Cracked pots

Not all patio pots can withstand a winter outside. Some may be labelled as frost resistant, but this won't always guarantee the fact. Don't risk frost cracking your favourite terracotta and ceramic glazed pots. Empty them out, wash them with disinfectant and then store them in a shed, ready to plant up again in spring.

Planting shrubs

If the weather conditions remain dry, continue planting evergreen shrubs, conifers and hedging. Even when it is cold, the soil still retains a little heat, especially deeper down, which encourages root growth and helps plants get established. Always take time to prepare the soil well when you are planting long-lived shrubs. Be generous with the compost that you dig in to improve the soil.

Forcing bulbs

Check potted bulbs in forcing frames and water them if their compost is dry. Make sure you only bring them into cool, light conditions when their shoots are 5cm (2in) tall.

Slug protection

Put a few slug pellets around treasured plants, especially alpines and bulbs, in any mild spells.

Cover ponds

Keep ponds covered with netting to prevent fallen leaves blowing in.

Dividing perennials

If conditions are mild and dry, continue to divide hardy perennials. On wet soils, it is best to wait until new shoots appear in the spring.

Mail order

Send for the latest catalogues from mail-order seed companies. Some new varieties may be in limited supply, so make sure you order early.

Water features

Removing pumps and filters from ponds and water features helps prevent them being damaged by freezing water during the winter.

Safe shredding

The shredder has become an essential piece of equipment for many gardeners, breaking down bulky or woody garden waste and reducing the need for bonfires. However, as with all garden tools, shredders must be used safely, so always wear gloves and goggles. Never push your hand into the funnel when feeding it and avoid blockages by alternating harder and softer material. Add the shreddings to the compost heap, or use coarse pieces as a mulch around shrubs.