November : inner fires

November always seems a month of big changes.

The clocks, the colours, the temperature and the dampness in the air have all altered. Nature begins to turn in on itself by shutting down for the coming winter months. The seeds settle, the sap slows and the wildlife hunkers down.

So do I.

It is more of an effort to get the boots on in the half-light so when I do get out there I need to get on with it.

The main areas to tackle this month are:

• herbaceous plants can still be split (divided) and re-positioned while the soil is still warm.
• A number of shrubs that need hard pruning in Spring can be partially cut back in order that they don't "rock" (nothing to do with Freddie Mercury) or get damaged in the winter winds. Buddleja davidii, Lavatera and Cornus fall into this category.
• Give yourself something to look forward to by planting Tulips for the Spring. Plant to a depth of approx. 3 x the length of the bulb.
• Likewise you can plant up winter bedding in a basket, a window box or straight into a dull border. Use Wallflowers, Forget-Me-Nots ( brilliant with Tulips), Primula and Viola.
• Whilst many trees and shrubs can be safely moved and pruned now the Prunus species should be left until spring.
• Now is the perfect time to plant Roses - and to tidy up your existing ones so they do not look scraggly.
• Keep taking the leaves off the grass and watch out for fungi. They will mostly be harmless Saprophytic fungi but best not take a chance with children about.
• Bubble-wrap the ceramic pots and clean out your water butts; they will quickly re-fill at this time of year.
• Like me, the wildlife needs plenty of fuel for the cold. Putting out bird seed and feeders not only does the birds a favour, it can give us plenty of entertainment too. Be aware that every squirrel will be after that food too!

In short, wrap up well, go for it and if the weather allows, take a flask outside with you and just spend a few moments to drink it all in. Savour your cuppa but savour also the subtle colours that appear in the evening light. You will begin to see mauves, purples, dark oranges, deep blood reds and browns.

It's so good it's just about good enough to give you the patience for the madness that is coming next month. And if it isn't, then hack down a few more plants - in a loving, caring, tree-hugging way of course.