gardens: WHAT TO DO THIS WEEK…

Evening Chronicle (Newcastle, England), Dec 1, 2007

CLEAR the last of the fallen leaves to add to the leafmould pile and prevent a build-up of pests.

Move large deciduous shrubs when they are leafless and dormant, between now and mid-March.

Cover brassicas with netting if pigeons are a problem.

Plant any cane, bush and tree fruit ordered last month. Do not plant if the ground is frozen or waterlogged.

Grape vines can be pruned from now through the winter.

Trap winter moths by placing grease bands around fruit trees. Tree stakes will also need grease-banding if they provide a route up into the branches.

Continue to harvest Jerusalem artichokes, winter cabbage, spinach, Swiss chard and kohl rabi.

Remove any yellowed leaves on Brussels sprouts and other brassicas to prevent the development of grey mould and brassica downy mildew.

Continue to cut down faded herbaceous perennials and add these to the compost heap.