Winter is well on its way so it’s time to wrap up the plants and put the garden to bed. We’re busy at Nymans tucking the garden away; our tender and exotic plants are being shrouded in fleece to keep them warm and dry throughout the coldest months.

Though some plants are being put away for the winter, there is still plenty to see at Nymans. Golden grasses glow in the low autumn light, while the beautiful bark of cherry and birch trees glimmer and shine, and dainty cyclamen and robust heathers are still in flower.

It’s all about winter protection this month, so as well as tucking in and tidying up, we’re also lifting dahlias. First of all, cut the flowering stalk and remaining leaves back, and then gently prise them out of the soil with a garden fork. Once they’re out of the ground, give them a quick clean with an old toothbrush to stop wet soil making the tubers mouldy. Then the dahlias should to be stored in a cool, dry place ready for re-planting next year.

Now is a great time for mulching, before the frosts hit. There are many benefits to doing this – it provides nutrients for plants, stops moisture escaping from the soil and creates a barrier against weeds. Also, now it’s getting chillier it will provide protection for plant roots from the frost; it looks smart too.

Most plants have finished flowering by now, however if you’re pining for those fabulous, floral displays of summer, why not try adding some colour to your garden with winter-themed pots. Pansies, primulas and violas all do well throughout the winter and small shrubs with decorative berries, such as skimmia and euonymus, can be just as pretty. If you want something a bit more unusual, ornamental cabbages are always a hit.

Though the nights are closing in and the chilly winds are picking up, there’s still plenty to see and do at Nymans. So come along and admire the beautiful views across the Downs, as well as all our hard work in the garden.

  • Nymans, Handcross, nr Haywards Heath, West Sussex, RH17 6EB, Tel: 01444 405250, www.national trust.org.uk/nymans
  • Gardens, woods, restaurant, shop and plant centre open every day (except Dec 25). House open every day from Mar 1 to Oct 31