NOW that the unusually mild spell appears to have finally passed, it certainly feels as though we are plunging headlong towards a long, damp winter.

That must mean it is the perfect time to have a clear up in your garden, plant a few things now for some winter colour and plan ahead for next year.

As any keen gardener will tell you, the best place to buy your plants is from a truly local nursery – and what could be more local than a farmers’ market stall? Blue Gecko Plants is based in Eckington, near Pershore, and has a wide variety of shrubs, bulbs and trees to offer. You will find their stall at the Royal Worcester and Angel Place farmers’ markets.

Nursery owner Catherine Thorpe has plenty to offer gardeners at this time of year: “We have apple trees specially designed for the small garden, as they won’t grow too large.

Plant them now for some fruit next autumn, as well as pretty white blossom in the spring.

“We also have quince, which is becoming very popular, and holly bushes ready to plant now. Or you could plant a small cherry tree which will give you beautiful pink, white or lilac blossom in the spring.

“The ground is still warm and planting now will give them a good start.”

Catherine also has cyclamen to plant now for instant colour all winter. She also specialises in camelia, which usually flower from Christmas onwards.

However, if you want a splash of colour inside your home, head to Rosabelle Needham’s Chaddesley Growers stall. She has a wide range of single bloom and spray chrysanthemums, or she will make up a bouquet at your request. You will find Rosabelle’s stall at Malvern, Bromsgrove and St Peter’s farmers’ markets.

Today’s farmers’ market is in Abbey Road, Malvern, from 9am until 2pm, while tomorrow’s market is in Angel Place, Worcester, from 9am until 3pm.

Next weekend’s market is at St Peter’s Garden Centre from 9.30am until 2pm.