While autumn signals the end of summer, for gardeners, there’s still plenty to do. In fact, a little preparation now can make a huge difference when spring arrives, helping your garden burst into life after the colder months.
From planting spring bulbs to giving your soil some TLC, here are some of the best autumn garden jobs to put on your list.
Plant spring bulbs
If you want a garden full of colour as soon as winter disappears, autumn is the time to get planting. Daffodils, crocuses, tulips, alliums and hyacinths are just some of the bulbs that can be planted now for a spectacular spring display. You can plant them in borders, containers and pots – or naturalise them in lawns for a more relaxed look.
Bulbs generally prefer well-drained soil, so avoid planting them where water tends to sit. As a general rule, plant bulbs at around two to three times their own depth, with the pointed end facing upwards, but refer to the instructions for each different bulb.
General planting
Autumn is an excellent time to plant many trees, shrubs, hardy perennials and hedging. The soil is still warm from summer while the cooler temperatures and increased rainfall help newly planted specimens settle and focus on growing their roots without the stress of hot, dry weather.
It’s also a great opportunity to introduce some new structure and colour to your garden. Think about where you have gaps in your borders and choose plants that will provide interest at different times of the year.
Give your lawn some attention
Your lawn has probably struggled during the summer drought, so autumn is the perfect time to help it recover. This is a good time to overseed thin areas and repair damaged patches, giving new grass time to establish before the worst of winter arrives.
If the lawn is looking a little tired or compacted, consider aerating it with a garden fork or aerator. This helps water, air and nutrients reach the roots. Clear away fallen leaves regularly, as a thick layer can block light and air from reaching the grass.
Border care
Healthy soil is the foundation of a healthy garden. Autumn is a great time to add well-rotted compost or organic matter to your borders. Spread a layer over the surface and let nature do the hard work over the coming months. Mulches can also help protect plant roots from temperature fluctuations, retain moisture and suppress weeds. Just take care not to pile it directly against plant stems or tree trunks.
Tidy up – but not too much
Cutting back tired herbaceous plants can make the garden look neater, but there’s no need to clear everything away. If you leave some seed heads and stems standing, these will provide food and shelter for wildlife through the winter, as well as adding valuable structure to the garden. Remove anything diseased and compost healthy garden material where appropriate.
Think ahead to spring
Autumn is a time to take a look at your garden with fresh eyes. Which areas worked well this year? Where were the gaps? Would a splash of spring colour brighten a particular corner? Are there containers that could be moved or refreshed?
Take a few photos before everything dies back and make a note of plants you particularly enjoyed. A little planning now means you can make informed choices when spring arrives.
We’re all aware of the potential of drought, so invest in a water butt (or two) now so you can collect and use rainwater when its needed. There are some
Tools of the trade
If your gardening tools are a little lacklustre, either spruce them up or treat yourself to new ones. You’ll find superb offers on gardening gloves, rakes, pruners kneelers and more in our garden essentials ranges – or add these as ideas to your Christmas list!
great deals in the autumn months so now’s the time to purchase.
Enjoy your autumn garden
We always say this in the summer, but it’s true of the autumn too! Sometimes you just need to sit and enjoy your garden. Autumn brings its own spectacular colours, from late-flowering plants and ornamental grasses, and leaves as they change hue. Perhaps add a new bench or smart bistro set to your favourite spot, so you can take time out from gardening and enjoy a brew.
Watching wild birds can be so enjoyable and relaxing – so if you don’t have a birdbath or bird table yet, or your existing ones need changing, now’s your chance to treat your garden birds.
A little effort goes a long way
By putting in the time now, you’ll not only keep your garden looking good through the colder months but give it the best possible start for a beautiful spring. And there’s nothing quite like seeing those first bulbs emerge after winter knowing that you planted them months before.
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