The days might be cold and grey but your outside space can still bring you joy – there are sturdy, vigorous plants that will fill it with beauty and heart-lifting colour…

Nature’s spiky deterrents–thorns, spines and prickles–may be quick to catch us out, but they can also prove to be a useful ally, discovers Laura Parker

October brings the first of the frosts, bewitching mist, the turning of leaves and a host of otherworldly visitors, finds John Lewis-Stempel

MAKE YOUR GARDEN A WINTER HAVEN FOR BIRDS, BEES AND BUGS WITH THESE FAUNA-FRIENDLY PLANTS AND FLOWERS

Discover the varieties that shine in every season and learn how to give them the best start

Though the cheerful chest of a robin can be seen throughout the year, this friendly bird has become synonymous with the festive season. This largely dates back to Victorian Christmas cards depicting p