With the mercury dropping, a gardening guru has cautioned against one particular action that could ruin your lawn over winter.

As Britain plunges into colder spells and frost layers our open spaces, Chris Mclloroy from The Grass People urges homeowners to steer clear of walking on their frozen lawns.

"With its fragile state, walking on a frosted lawn can worsen the impact. Each step can crush and break blades, which can’t bend and flex as they usually would," he warned.

He further highlighted: "Footfall can also cause soil compaction in the frozen conditions, especially if the lawn is still slightly damp from rain or dew. Compacted soil reduces root growth and water absorption, both essential for lawn recovery.

"When frost arrives, it’s crucial to limit the damage as much as you can."

Noting the unexpectedly mild autumn thus far, the sudden drop in temperatures means gardeners should be alert to the risks of morning frost, making this timely advice all the more pertinent.

And if you're keen to maintain your patio area, the same expert spills the beans on how best to manage icy residues and persistent blotches on your pathways and decking post-thaw.

Outdoor flooring guru Steven Walley, from London Stone, has shed light on how untended damp leaves, remnants of snow and ice, could wreak havoc on your patio garden. He recommends a natural concoction for tackling the issue to ensure your patio remains shipshape.

The solution, which is simple yet effective in terminating algae growth, consists of a blend of water and vinegar.

Steven said: "Use a mixture of water and white vinegar to spray down the area and kill the algae before rinsing the surface with a hose."

He continued, detailing the steps: "Next, pour white vinegar directly on the surface and scrub using a brush. Use a vigorous back and forth motion to lift any stains."