Garden notes

How to turn fallen leaves into leaf mould: which leaves to use, a leaf cage or bags, how long it takes, how to use it, and why to leave some for the hedgehogs.

Before, during and after a named storm: Met Éireann warnings, trampolines, bins, fences, polytunnels, fallen lines, salt burn and planting shelter for next winter.

How to make a real Christmas wreath from garden holly, ivy and conifer, what to look for if you buy one, and how to keep it fresh through an Irish December.

Coated knit, leather, gauntlets or waterproof: which gardening gloves suit which jobs, how they should fit, what EN 388 means, and how to keep them from going mouldy.

When frost comes, why clear still nights matter, ground frost versus air frost, frost pockets, coast versus inland, and what to do when frost is forecast.

The shortest days and the quietest month: staying off wet ground, winter pruning of apples and pears, storm checks, frost protection, garlic, the Christmas tree and planning for next year.

Bypass or anvil, how they should fit your hand, what makes a pair last, and how to stop them rusting in an Irish shed.

How to choose, power and put up outdoor Christmas lights so they last through Irish wind and rain: IP ratings, RCDs, extension leads, timers and storm prep.

Winter starts on 1 November by the old Irish calendar, but the garden does not stop. Leaves, the last lawn cut, tulips, hedges, pots, tools and taps: what to do this month.

A wreath, a few lights and a candle in the window: how to dress the front of the house for Christmas so it survives an Irish December.