Weeding out the unwelcome before winter tightens its grip

Some weeds, like couch grass, docks and thistles, will still be in leaf, so you can deal them a final blow on a calm, dry day with either a decent weedkiller like Roundup RTU. Anything contaning glyphosate will do them a power of no good

By The Newsroom

Published 26th Nov 2010, 13:29 BST

Updated 26th Nov 2010, 13:29 BST

After a couple of weeks the roots will be dead and it should be safe to dig over your veg patch so that it's ready for planting come spring.

If you have been blessed with heavy clay soil then this side of the new year is the best time to dig it over. Before you start the heavy work, spread over the soil surface a thick layer of well-rotted garden compost.

Then take out a narrow trench to the width of your spade, throwing the soil forwards. Dig the next row just one spade deep and turn the soil over into the trench you have made, leaving the soil in large clods.

Continue in the same way so that you are burying the compost as you go and leaving the soil from the bottom of the spade exposed to the elements.

This is heavy work, so it's best to spend a few days doing the deed.

There's no rush.

YP MAG 27/11/10