November in the garden
November brings shorter days, colder nights and plenty of fallen leaves, but there are still worthwhile jobs to tackle whenever the weather allows.
1. Plant Tulips
November is traditionally a great month for planting tulip bulbs.
Plant them in well-drained soil or containers for a fantastic display next spring.
2. Plant Bare-Root Trees and Shrubs
The dormant season is an excellent opportunity to plant many bare-root trees, shrubs and hedging plants.
Never plant into frozen or waterlogged ground.
3. Clear Leaves From Lawns
Thick layers of wet leaves can smother grass.
Rake them up and add suitable leaves to your leaf-mould pile.
4. Protect Outdoor Containers
Move vulnerable pots to sheltered positions and consider raising containers onto feet to help excess water drain.
5. Clean Bird Feeders
Bird feeders should be cleaned regularly to help reduce the spread of disease.
Keep fresh water available too.
6. Check Stored Produce
Regularly inspect stored fruit and vegetables and remove anything beginning to deteriorate.
7. Protect Tender Plants
Use suitable winter protection for plants vulnerable to frost.
Check protection after strong winds.
8. Clean Garden Tools
If some tools are finished for the season, clean, sharpen and store them somewhere dry.
9. Avoid Waterlogged Lawns
Repeatedly walking across saturated grass can compact the soil and damage the lawn.
Use paths wherever possible.
10. Start Planning Next Year
Make notes about what worked this year and what didn’t.
November is a great time to start planning new borders, vegetable crops and garden projects.
There’s Still Life in the November Garden
The pace may have slowed, but November is far from a wasted gardening month. Plant when conditions allow, protect vulnerable plants and prepare for winter.
Gardeners Guide — Grow Better. Garden Smarter.
