May is a month of transition — tidying, preparing and planning. The work done now sets the foundation for a productive and beautiful garden in the seasons to come. Frosts are beginning to blacken dahlia and pumpkin foliage, signalling the garden’s move into its winter phase. While it may feel like everything is going downhill, the accumulated moisture will be valuable once mulch and compost are applied, locking in goodness for strong spring growth. Focus is now on winter preparation, so cut back damaged dahlias and either lift and store tubers in a dry place or cover them with straw or compost if left in the ground. If mulching is not yet under way, cut stems and bend them over to prevent water from sitting in hollow stems and causing rot. Autumn roses have been delightful, with rich colour from cooler nights, but they are now fading. Remove spent petals, but leave seed heads (hips) to help harden the wood ahead of pruning in July. Avoid feeding roses now as new growth is not needed.…