The October Garden:

October has a way of making us look at the garden differently.

The grand summer performance is fading, but there is still so much to notice: a rose flowering against the odds, seed heads catching the light, leaves turning the colour of old copper. Even a slightly dishevelled border can be rather beautiful.

Before reaching for the secateurs, it is worth taking a slow walk.

Some plants are ready to be cleared, especially where foliage is diseased or collapsing into a soggy heap. Others can be left standing a little longer. Sturdy seed heads and hollow stems bring texture through the colder months and can offer food or shelter for wildlife.

This is not an argument for abandoning the garden altogether. More a permission slip to be selective.

Gather fallen leaves from paths where they become slippery. Where you have room, collect them in a separate leaf-mould pile or a ventilated sack and let time do its work. Leave frost-tender plants their own particular protection, and resist treating every border as though it needs the same haircut.

October is also a lovely month for noticing what you would like more of next year. Which corner lacked colour? Which plant quietly earned its place? Make a few notes while you can still remember. By February, the summer border has a habit of becoming much more impressive in our imagination.

And do bring a little of the season indoors. A few garden-grown stems, some fallen leaves or a small branch from your own pruning can make a simple seasonal arrangement. Check for insects before bringing them into the house, and keep unfamiliar or potentially toxic plants away from children and pets.

A garden need not be immaculate to be well loved. Sometimes the nicest thing we can do in October is leave a little room for nature, and enjoy the changing scene.