Essential November Gardening Tasks to Prepare for Winter

As the clocks go back and the days become shorter with longer nights, the time available for gardening is reduced. However, it's important to find time for it, as there are still crucial tasks to complete in preparation for Winter and the following Spring.

1. Clear fallen leaves

   
   

Collecting leaves in my E5 garden

Create leaf mould at no cost by gathering fallen leaves from patios and pathways, while allowing those on flower beds to decompose and enrich the soil naturally. Store the collected leaves in a bin bag or container to decompose over the year. By the following year, you'll have a superb soil conditioner or mulch.

2. Cut back soft stem perennials

Geranium Rozanne in my E11 Naturalistic Planting Design

At this time of year, soft-stemmed perennials such as Geraniums often appear brown and scraggly. Trim them down to the ground now, and they will grow back robustly next summer.

3. Fill your gaps

Setting out new plants in my N12 Dog Friendly Garden

Autumn is an ideal season to evaluate your garden border and address any gaps noticed during the Spring/Summer by adding new plants. The soil remains warm, and there should be sufficient rainfall to help your plants establish their roots.

4. Raise up containers

Raised up planters in my E1 Courtyard Garden

Potted plants dislike being in cold or, even worse, frozen water, so elevate them off the floor using pot feet.

5. Plant Tulips

Potted Tulips in my E5 garden

As the weather turns colder, the risk of tulip fire should have diminished, making it the perfect time to plant your tulips in pots or garden borders. Plant them at a depth three times the height of the bulbs and incorporate grit into the planting hole to improve drainage.

November is also the perfect time to start talking to a designer if you are looking for a garden refresh. Contact me today to discusss.