CHANGES in the weather changes our gardens.

We have experienced a summer for the first time in a few years, and west central Scotland has experienced a relatively drier period than previous years.

Drier conditions are welcomed by us all but can change the way we have to garden.

Plants that require fertile, moisture retentive soils will perhaps have struggled a little this year, unless you have been attentive and kept them well watered.

Lavender is a plant that has enjoyed the long dry summer, along with phlomis and sage

But don't rush out to fill your garden with Mediterranean plants.

Plants that enjoy nice hot dry periods often don't like our long wet mild spells.

Hopefully the drier conditions through the summer will continue and allow bulbs to overwinter in good soil conditions and not rot in the ground.

If you are looking to renew plants, choose ones that can withstand drought conditions, and always make sure you site new plants in their favoured position.

As we begin to experience shorter days, we should think about preparing our garden for the autumn and winter ahead.

September hails a goodbye to summer and the onset of autumn. As the leaves begin to turn and fall, make sure any dead leaves tare cleared away from borders and lawns so that areas of lawn are not smothered and cause grass die back and small shrubs are not buried under leaf fall.

Aerating the lawn now will help drainage and allow the soil, , with winter frosts assisting, to prepare itself for next year.

September is a good month to plan your garden for next year. If you are planting new bulbs this is the month to plan, purchase and get the bulbs in the ground.

It is also a good time to check on your main crop potatoes - they should be ready for lifting now or anytime soon to overwinter.

These potatoes should be stored in a dark, frost free area.

Our cold spring had an impact on fruit and veg plots but the summer soon had a way of correcting itself and you could be enjoying a nice potato salad. even if the weather outside is not quite holding high temperatures.