Keep off the grass when it is hard frozen or you will leave blackened prints, which will take a few weeks to disappear. Crisp dry days are just the time to deal with wall climbers such as ivy, Virginia creeper or climbing hydrangea, which have got out of hand or clambered up into gutters. Cut them back to a natural-looking profile on the wall, and remove any large forward-leaning swags which might tear away in wind or snow.

Now is a good time, while plants are leafless, to erect training wires on walls and fences, and to make any necessary repairs to walls and fences.

Complete any tree pruning needed. Once the sap starts to rise major wounds can bleed profusely.

Complete any digging, and leave the soil rough for the birds to get at insect pests and the frosts to break down the soil.

Turn compost heaps to increase decomposition.

Ventilate when possible frames to help prevent build-ups of mildew. Leave open on mild days but cover with sacking if frost is forecast.