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Bulbs should preferably be planted earlier in autumn, but there is still time this November for tulips, daffodils and crocuses. These bulbs can be planted through to the end of the month if the weather is mild before the soil loses the heat from the summer months. Leaves are a commodity in any garden, perfect for adding to both mulch and compost once your leaf pile has transformed into mould. Firstly, separate your leaves and keep them in a garden container, bag or create a heap in a quiet corner of your garden. The bacteria that break the leaves down to mould needs oxygen to work, so make sure you puncture any bags you collect your leaves in.Most vegetables won’t grow very well if they are planted between November and February because the short days don’t provide enough sunlight. All root vegetables should have been dug up by now if you haven’t harvested carrots, turnips, potatoes and other similar vegetables they need to be dug up as soon as possible. Cut perennial plants right down, adding all the remains to the compost heap.

To protect your potted plants from the harshest winter weather group them in a sheltered spot. Prepare your soil for next year’s planting by digging over empty borders. Get pruning — roses, fruit trees, wisteria and Japanese maples are some of the plants that can benefit from a winter prune. Don't forget the birds - stock up on fat balls, clean feeders, and make sure there is access to fresh water. Leave the faded flower heads on your hydrangeas until spring, as they provide frost protection to the swelling buds further down the stems. Clean out the greenhouse thoroughly. Wash the glass, the floor and the staging with horticultural disinfectant to kill any overwintering pests and diseases.