Although we probably don’t want to admit it the mornings are much darker, the evenings are drawing in and there has been a distinct chill factor in the weather. As the summer season slowly grinds to a halt there is plenty to be getting on with in the garden and now is a good time to take stock of what will be needing attention in the months ahead. It doesn’t seem possible that the time has come to start lifting tender perennials ready to over winter – a job it is essential to have completed before the first frosts. Both pelargoniums and fuchsias can be stored successfully during the cold winter months. Transfer the plants into pots just large enough to comfortably take the root ball and move them to a frost-free place. If you are lucky enough to have a heated greenhouse this would be ideal but a cool, light place indoors will do just as well. Why not keep any zonal pelargoniums on display? They make brilliant winter houseplants. Just give them a light and warm situation and with regular watering they will reward you by flowering right through the winter. Let the foliage of tuberous begonias die back after lifting and then store the tubers in dry peat in a cool, frost-free place. If your houseplants have been having a summer holiday outside now is the time to bring them back in. Check them over thoroughly to make sure they aren’t acting as hosts to any unwanted pests and insects who would be only too happy to over-winter in your nice warm home.