Plan a rotation system for vegetable plots to ensure the same crops are not grown in the same beds year after year to help prevent disease build-up.

Leave heavy soils exposed during cold weather as the frosts will kill pests and improve soil structure by the continual freezing and thawing of soil water.

Cut off old leaves of hellebores that produce flowers from ground level (including Helleborus x hybridus and H. niger) to expose the flowers and remove possible foliar diseases such as hellebore leaf spot.

Start cutting back grasses and other perennials left for winter interest.

Sow seeds of begonia, lobelia, salvia and pelargonium in a heated greenhouse or propagator to provide early plants.

Stock up on store cupboard items such as string, stakes and canes for use later in the year.

Keep alpine houses well ventilated and remove dead leaves from around basal rosettes to prevent rotting.