During winter many of us tend to forget about our gardens. After all what's the point if it's going to be covered over in a layer of frost and/or snow.

Now is the perfect time to get your garden "winter ready" so come spring next year, you have a great area to work with AND not forgetting those beautiful plants, flowers and veg that actually do well in the colder months.

Autumn is the best time to plant, as long as you have a good six weeks before the first expected hard frost. Without having to produce leaves, trees and shrubs can put their full energy into their roots, ensuring sturdy spring growth. And many local nurseries have end-of-season sales.

Flowers for winter

Try some Hellebores- perennial garden plants with elegant flowers, perfect for brightening up shady areas during late winter and early spring. Looking for a shrub to bring that cosy winter feelings try Witch Hazel; Its spicy fragrance and spidery flowers in yellow, orange and reds make it a must for the winter garden.

A splash of colour

Try adding a pop of colour to your garden during winter by introducing Hollies and Berries. Planted roses in the summer? If left unheaded they will develop glossy hips (which can also be used to make delicious rose hip syrup)

Enjoy your changing landscape

It's often not thought about in our day to day rush, but take the time to enjoy your garden during the winter. The snow covered conifers, the falling autumnal leaves.

Vegetables to grow in the cooler months

Try onions and shallots which look after themselves over winter. Garlic is very easy to grow and there are so many different varieties. Peas are great to get into the ground now,as is asparagus- although most types take a while to establish you are guaranteed tender, home grown asparagus that is worth the wait.

3 Tips to help you on your way

1. Dig over your soil

The essential spring job is digging and preparing. Digging and forking the soil allows you to loosen it and remove weeds.

2. Prune your shrubs

Start by removing any dead or diseased branches; prevent damage by cutting back sections which rub against each other.

3 Spruce up your garden path

It’s time to spruce up the garden path and bring it back to life with a good old-fashioned sweep. Grab a stiff brush and start clearing paths of moss, lichen and weeds. Got a power hose? Even better, blast all the dirt away and then sweep over with the brush.

Don't forget to enjoy your winter garden!