1. Cut Back Faded Perennials Many herbaceous plants will have finished flowering by now. Cut back spent blooms and remove tatty foliage to tidy borders and encourage a late flush where possible. However, leave some seed heads for birds and winter interest.

2. Keep Feeding and Watering Pots, baskets and hungry crops still need regular feeding. Top up water butts and consider installing an irrigation system if you haven’ t already. Keep mulch topped up to retain moisture and protect roots from extreme heat.

3. Sow for Autumn and Winter It’ s not too late to sow fast-growing crops like salad leaves, rocket, spinach and radishes- perfect for late balmy alfresco dining! Hardy crops like spring cabbage or pak choi can be started now too. Use cloches or fleece later to extend your growing season.

4. Harvest Herbs for Winter Use Cut and dry herbs like thyme, oregano and mint now while they’ re at their most aromatic. Store in airtight jars for winter cooking. A great tip is to freeze chopped soft herbs like parsley and basil in ice cube trays with a little water or oil.

5. Take Semi-Ripe Cuttings Now is a good time to propagate shrubs like lavender, rosemary and hydrangea using semi-ripe cuttings. Dip in rooting hormone and place in moist compost under a plastic bag or propagator lid.