Summer has really disappeared, but garden is still full of colour and life. Once again, this is another time of year that I get really anxious about hard work that needs to be done. However, there is a simple method that may work.

Make a list – this is my list for my garden. Why not make your own for your own garden?

Climbers

• Plant new climbers (including in containers).

Creating new life

• Divide overgrown perennials.
• Finish planting spring bedding and bulbs. (This is your last real chance.)
• Plant containers for winter colour.
• Pot up half hard fuchsias.

Fruit

• Prune blackcurrants, if necessary.
• Prepare for planting new fruit trees.

Maintaining the garden

• Rake up fallen leaves and pile them up to make leafmould.
• Continue clearing up the garden, and watch for fungal infection (burn or bin debris showing signs).
• Dig over empty areas of soil.
• Prepare the ground for planting bare-rooted plants in November.

Perennials

• Plant new perennials.
• Cut back and lift existing perennials.
• Plant herbaceous perennials.
• Divide crocosmias.

Planting

• Finish planting evergreen shrubs.
• Plant tulips and lily bulbs.
• Plant deciduous and evergreen hedges.

Pruning (shrubs and trees)

• Prune tall shrubs and climbing roses.
• Trim conifers, if necessary.

Most important task

• Sit and enjoy your garden in the fading light.