In this issue

“Compact acers bring vibrant colour and take up little space,” says Louise Curley

“It’s not too late for autumn-flowering bulbs,” says Camilla

Focus on... Compost heaps

Waste not, want not when it comes to recycling garden scraps, says Lucy – and the results of your endeavours will help to nourish the next generation of crops

2 mins

In fine fettle

Comma butterflies are flourishing in fine weather, says Val

3 mins

What's in store?

The hard work is over and the crops are gathered – but don’t let careless storage ruin your harvests, says Bob

2 mins

Just sow and they'll grow

California poppies are great for poor soils, says Ruth

1 min

Bulbs to brighten winter

Forced bulbs provide indoor colour and scent, says Ruth

1 min

Cuttings for plant security

Propagate tender perennials before winter, says Ruth

1 min

Plant out hardy youngsters

Most plants will fare better in soil than pots, says Ruth

2 mins

Bulbs flourish in containers

Growing in pots is the ideal way to brighten small spaces

2 mins

Spring bulb season is here!

Start planting now for a bright start to the year, said Ruth

2 mins

Plant your own Florist's garden

Want to save money and enjoy cut-flower varieties you won't find in the shops? Sow hardy annuals now and you'll have the pick of the bunch next year, says Hazel Sillver

5 mins

Best plants for clay soil

Clay soils can be challenging, but are among the most fertile. Anne Swithinbank explains how treat clay soils right and reveals those plants that suit them the best

7 mins

Magic roundabouts

Roundabouts growing wild are nature reserves, says Val

2 mins

Future potato planning

There is a knack to selecting the best potatoes for next year's planting. Bob reveals which tubers to keep

2 mins

Annual with eternal charm

Dwarf larkspurs are traditional favourite, says Ruth

1 min

Think about going organic

This month is the time to start eco-gardening, says Ruth

2 mins

What to do this month

I'm planting, clearing and prepping for autumn, says Ruth

1 min

Autumn perennial care

Autumn is one of the best times for planting, says Ruth

2 mins

Winter crops and plan ahead

It's time to replenish empty soil for next year's plants

2 mins

Fruit and veg in autumn

I'm eking out the last tasty scraps of summer, says Ruth

2 mins

Agapanthus under attack

A gall midge is spreading across the country ruining our agapanthus. Toby explains how to thwart it

2 mins

Pretty polyanthus

August is the time to sow seeds of polyanthus to give you masses of colourful blooms in 20 months' time, says James Cobbold, as he reveals his top tips

4 mins

Hornets and wasps

Val looks at two insects that are important pollinators

3 mins

Prepare for winter harvests

Now's the time to start planning for winter, says Bob, as he explains what will survive the colder months

2 mins

All our gardens are valid

Monty and Alan must move with the times

2 mins

Rose care in late summer

There is still time to get more flowers

2 mins

Miracle-Gro peat-free vs peat

'Trial by tomato' to pit Erin peat compost against peat-free

2 mins

Spike your interest with Éryngiums

Loved for their sculptural shapes and cool colour palette, sea hollies will give gardens a border boost from late summer into autumn

4 mins

Nature's way

Graham Rice asks why force climbers up obelisks and poles when they can grow naturally and more spectacularly in shrubs?

6 mins

Top Ten Phlox

In a kaleidoscope of colours, many with a fantastic fragrance, phlox are a must-have for borders and rock gardens

6 mins

The power to poison

Take care when buying farmyard manure, says Toby, as it may contain herbicides that can damage your plants...

2 mins

Read all stories from Amateur Gardening

Amateur Gardening Magazine Description:

Every week, Amateur Gardening is the first choice for both beginners and knowledgeable gardeners looking for advice and easy-to-follow practical features on growing flowers, trees, shrubs as well as fruit and vegetables. Be inspired, by our beautifully illustrated features covering plant and flower groups, both home grown and exotic, and take a sneak peek into some of the most beautiful private gardens around the country. Plus, every week we feature expert opinion and tips from some of gardening’s most influential exponents including Toby Buckland, Bob Flowerdew, Anne Swithinbank, Peter Seabrook and Jo Whittingham.