Autumn lifestyle guides offer home and garden maintenance tips

As autumn approaches, various lifestyle guides offer advice on home maintenance, gardening, and seasonal preparations.

To combat indoor dampness and mold, experts suggest using dish soap on windows to create a surfactant barrier that prevents heavy condensation. Homeowners are also advised to test heating systems and inspect radiators before the cold weather arrives to avoid emergency repairs.

In gardening, September is a critical time for pruning specific plants like lavender, phlox, and raspberries to prevent fungal infections and frost damage. For those looking to maintain colorful balconies, planting chrysanthemums, calluna, and ornamental cabbage can provide visual interest through November.

Culinary trends for the season include making honey and nut mixtures for winter storage and utilizing seasonal fruits like plums for savory dishes.