If there is still a threat of frost in your area it is better to wait a few weeks. Cannas, ginger, ferns and cane begonias are among the tropicals that can look a bit scraggly and in need of refreshing now.

Cut stalks that are have bloomed, are looking leggy or have brown edges all the way to the ground and feed with a balanced fertilizer. Soon new shoots will start and quickly grow in to refresh the plant for a show of new foliage or blooms this spring and summer.

Although a good cutting back this time of year is recommended, progressive pruning throughout the year to remove stems that have bloomed is encouraged to keep the plants tidy and encourage continuing flowers.

Woody tropicals like pyracantha and bougainvillea should be pruned back to last year's wood to encourage summer and fall flowering.