Ramblers produce great long, vigorous shoots from the base each year. To prevent the whole framework from becoming overcrowded with thick, woody branches, it’s a good idea to cut these out, and now is the hour. Don thornproof gear, detach the whole plant from its supports and lower it to the ground, where the shoots can be laid out and dealt with in turn. Remove the oldest shoot at the point where its successor arises, cart it away to one side, then lift and replace each shoot in its new position on the wall, tying in as you go.

* Subscribe to Country Life and up to £50  

* Gardening calendar: See more September jobs, tips and tasks