The leaves are changing colour, the air is getting cooler and the pumpkin spice craze is in full swing. Yes, autumn is officially here – and that means it’s time to start preparing your garden for the colder months ahead.
Here are a few simple tips to get your garden ready for autumn:
Start by giving your plants a good tidy-up
Remove any dead or dying leaves and stems, as these can harbour diseases that could spread to healthy plants. If you have any annuals that are looking past their best, pull them up and compost them.
Cut back perennials
Perennials will die back naturally in autumn, but it’s a good idea to give them a little helping hand by cutting them back to ground level. This will tidy up your garden and also help to prevent disease.
Divide and replant
If you have any perennials that have become overcrowded, now is the time to divide them and replant them elsewhere in your garden. This will give them a chance to establish themselves before the winter weather arrives.
Add some new plants
Autumn is a great time to add new plants to your garden. The cooler weather means they won’t dry out as quickly, giving them a chance to get established before the heat of summer arrives.
Apply mulch
Mulch is a layer of material (such as compost or straw) that you apply to the surface of your soil. It helps to suppress weeds, retain moisture and protect your plants from the cold.
Protect tender plants
If you have any plants that are not hardy enough to withstand the cold winter weather, now is the time to move them indoors or into a sheltered spot in your garden. Alternatively, you can cover them with a layer of mulch or straw to protect them from the elements.
Bring in any pots or containers
Pots and containers are more vulnerable to the cold than plants in the ground, so it’s important to bring them indoors or into a sheltered spot over winter. If you can’t do this, make sure you empty them out and turn them upside down to prevent water from collecting in them and freezing.
Tidy the borders
Remove any dead leaves or debris from your garden borders. This will help to prevent diseases and pests from overwintering in your garden.
Check your equipment
Give your gardening tools a good clean and sharpen before you put them away for winter. This will help to prevent rust and keep them in good condition for next year.
Don’t forget to enjoy the season!
Although it’s important to prepare your garden for autumn, don’t forget to take the time to enjoy the season. Go for walks in the crisp autumn air, jump in piles of leaves and make the most of the seasonal produce. After all, winter will be here before you know it!