TENDER plants can be cut back, lifted and stored in a dormant state or protected with a covering of organic matter (known as mulch).

The decision on whether to lift and store or leave them outside under mulch depends both upon the plant and the local climate, according to advice from the Royal Horticultural Society.

Tender herbaceous perennials that can be lifted and stored include dahlias, cannas, tuberous begonias and gladioli.

All these plants have fleshy tubers, rhizomes (underground stems) or corms that can survive in a dormant state when lifted and stored.

In sheltered, well-drained parts of the garden, it may be possible to cut back the tops of tender plants, leave them in the ground and cover them with a thick mulch to protect them over winter.

In very cold or exposed areas, even hardy perennials may need the protection of mulch over winter.

Tender plants need protection at the first warning of frost, usually between September and November.

Cannas, dahlias and pelargoniums (commonly known as geraniums) can be lifted and stored in a semi-dormant state over winter.

Where lifting and storing are not necessary, a thick, dry mulch can be used for protection.

Suitable mulching materials include straw, garden compost, chipped bark or well-rotted manure.