JOBS TO DO

STRAIGHTEN YOUR TIES
Check ties on recently planted young trees to see if they have become tight and restrictive. There should always be a little play there. Research shows that trees develop better if they are planted when they are small and do not have tree ties around them but if your tree is large and only recently planted keep the tie on for a year or two until the roots have had time to develop and anchor the tree into place. If you feel the tree can stand up on its own then take off the tie and stake as soon as possible then fill in the hole the stake left with soil.

LIFT AND DIVIDE PERENNIALS
When the leaves have been blackened by frost, dahlia tubers should be dug up. Cut off the stems at 2-3in above the tuber, remove all the loose soil, dry them in an airy place, dust with flowers of sulphur, and label and store in a cool dark place. The easiest way to apply sulphur is to shake the tubers in a plastic bag with handful of flowers of sulphur. Large old clumps of tubers are better divided next spring, when you plant them out again. Division now only makes wounds for mould to enter.

This is the perfect time to lift and divide herbaceous perennials. Replenish the soil with well-rotted compost (and with plenty of coarse grit if the soil is heavy clay). Divide large clumps with a fork or spade and replant the strongest, outer pieces and water well. Also it is a good time to buy and put in new plants. The garden centres are brimming with new specimens at this time of year

Magic muck: If you all ready have not done so, try to get your hands on some well-rotted manure. You will need about one barrow load per 12 sq yards; you can dig it in or leave it on the surface for the worms to pull down over the winter months.