Autumn-flowering bulbs have just arrived in many garden centres. Look out for (and plant immediately) saffron crocuses, sternbergias, Cyclamen hederifolium and colchicums. (Colchicum `Waterlily' is a very double hybrid that is longer-lasting than some of its single-flowered relatives.)
For indoor colour, take one of the peculiar, flat tubers of Cyclamen hederifolium, soak it overnight and place on a saucer on the window sill. It will flower there happily. After the blooms have faded, plant the tuber in the garden.
The ground-hugging, yellow-flowered winter aconites (Eranthis hyemalis) should also be planted now. They will grow well and increase their numbers under the canopies of deciduous trees or in other areas of dappled shade.