October in the garden
October is when autumn really takes hold. Leaves tumble from trees, temperatures fall and summer displays finally begin giving way.
Far from being the end of the gardening year, October is one of the best months for preparing for the next one.
1. Keep Collecting Leaves
Clear heavy layers of leaves from lawns and paths.
Rather than throwing them away, use suitable leaves to make valuable leaf mould.
2. Plant Spring Bulbs
Continue planting daffodils, crocuses, alliums and other spring-flowering bulbs.
October is also a good time to start preparing pots for spring colour.
3. Plant Trees and Shrubs
Autumn conditions are ideal for establishing many trees and shrubs.
Water well after planting even if rain is expected.
4. Move Tender Plants
Bring frost-sensitive container plants somewhere protected before temperatures fall too far.
5. Clear Vegetable Beds
Remove finished crops and unhealthy plant material.
Add suitable organic matter to empty beds where appropriate.
6. Make Compost
Autumn provides huge amounts of compostable material.
Mix fallen leaves and other carbon-rich material with greener garden waste rather than creating a dense pile of one material.
7. Reduce Lawn Mowing
Grass growth slows as temperatures fall.
Continue mowing when necessary, but raise the cutting height and avoid mowing waterlogged or frozen ground.
8. Lift Tender Plants
Tender plants that won’t survive your local winter may need lifting and storing somewhere frost-free.
9. Leave Some Seed Heads
Don’t cut everything down.
Seed heads can provide food and habitat for wildlife while adding attractive winter structure.
10. Check Greenhouses and Sheds
Fix leaks, broken panes and loose roofing before winter storms expose the problems for you.
October Is About Preparation
A few weekends spent planting, clearing and protecting now can save a huge amount of work later.
And every bulb you plant is something to look forward to next spring.
Gardeners Guide — Grow Better. Garden Smarter.
