From the end of the month and through February, if the weather is not too cold, you can start to cut back ornamental grasses such as Miscanthus and Calamagrostis down to about 5cm above ground level . Leave Pennisteum well alone until mid-April as its crown needs the protection that the dead foliage provides. Also cut back Hellebore leaves to show off the new growth and flowers.

Start designing and planning your beds by taking a look at websites. Not just those belonging to nurseries like us, but magazines and gardens that are open throughout the year too. Such a nice activity, especially on wet gloomy days. Why not compile a list of gardens that you want to visit this year.

Continue to turn your compost. This will help it to be at its best when it’s needed in the near future.

Make pea sticks and flower supports from hazel or bamboo. It’s much better and easier to place them at the outset rather than trying to stake plants once they have flopped.

Continue to check bonfire sites for wildlife before lighting them. You never know what’s lurking in the undergrowth in this cold weather!

For more advice on how to look after your garden check out Rosy’s videos on Youtube.