Clean this
If you want birds to return to your nest boxes spring after spring, autumn is the ideal time for a cleanout. Lever out old nests (they can go on the compost heap), flush out the insides with boiling water, then leave to dry before rehanging. If your box remains resolutely empty, check the RSPB’s advice on siting: is.gd/nestbox
Visit this
With Halloween looming, we’re reaching peak pumpkin season. Head to the Beth Chatto gardens near Colchester, in Essex, where a giant pumpkin hunt (every day until 2 November) will divert restive half-termers while you draw inspiration from the seven-acre grounds and sneak in a trip to the nursery.
Plant this
If your soil is too heavy for most alliums, try Allium obliquum (twisted-leaf onion). It can cope with clay, and if you plant it in full sun, you’ll be rewarded come June and July with yellow-green starburst flower heads on twirly stems. Height and spread: 80cm x 15cm. Order one bulb for £9.99 or three for £19.98 (prices include free UK mainland p&p). To order, call 0330 333 6856, quoting ref GU259, or go to our Readers’ Offers page. Delivery next month.
