Help squash to ripen

The latter part of the year has started to draw closer – trees are shrugging off their leaves, and garden plants are starting to slow down, while harvests are coming in thick and fast for us to enjoy.

Vibrant orange pumpkins, ready to be carved into lanterns for Halloween, are synonymous with October. However, along with fellow squashes and gourds, they are much more than just a seasonal decoration

Lucy explains how to make the most of the next few weeks

THIS MONTH Squashes

September is a sweet spot for gardeners. There might not be the frenzied burst of activity you see in spring or the bold drama of midsummer in full bloom, says Martyn Cox , but there’s plenty to do before the colder months come round

A little nip and tuck now can help keep pests and disease at bay