As the crisp autumn days approach, it's time to turn our attention to preparing our gardens for the colder months ahead. With a little effort now, you can ensure your garden remains healthy and vibrant throughout the winter and emerges ready to bloom in spring.
Lawn Care
Maintaining a healthy lawn during the autumn months is essential for a beautiful spring display.
Mow the lawn: Although grass growth slows down in autumn, it doesn't stop entirely. Keep your lawn tidy by mowing it on dry days.
Deal with worm casts: While worms are beneficial for your soil, their casts can be unsightly. Clear them away with a besom broom to maintain a neat lawn.
Feed your lawn: Nourish your lawn with an autumn lawn food to strengthen it during the colder months and promote healthy growth come spring.
Garden Tidy-Up
As the autumn leaves begin to fall, it's time to give your garden a thorough cleaning to prepare it for the colder months ahead.
Clear your vegetable garden: Remove any leftover crops and weeds to prevent pests and diseases from spreading.
Protect vulnerable plants: Bring tender or half-hardy plants indoors to shield them from frost damage.
Remove debris: Clear away fallen leaves, fruit, and other debris to discourage pests and diseases and allow sunlight to reach your plants.
Winter Preparations
Clean your tools: Store your garden tools in a dry place after cleaning them to prevent rust and ensure they're ready for use next spring.
Prepare your greenhouse: Clean the glass, remove any debris, and disinfect the interior to prevent pests and diseases.
Store garden furniture: Protect your garden furniture from the elements by covering it or storing it indoors.
Tend to your pond: Remove any overgrown plants or weeds, skim off fallen leaves, and consider covering the pond with a net to keep it clean.
Planning Ahead
Plant bulbs: Autumn is the ideal time to plant spring-flowering bulbs.
Water your plants: Even though the summer heat has subsided, your plants may still need watering, especially if the weather remains dry.
Repair fences and gates: Ensure your garden boundaries are secure by repairing any damaged fences or gates.
Clear gutters and drains: Remove any debris from gutters and drains to prevent waterlogging and potential damage.
Feed the birds: Provide bird feeders with a steady supply of food to attract wildlife to your garden throughout the winter.
By following these tips, you can ensure your garden is well-prepared for the autumn and winter seasons, setting it up for a beautiful and bountiful spring.
