Gardeners have been given a one-week warning with the ‘last chance’ to save their gardens before autumn arrives. The ‘false autumn’ phenomenon has been triggered by the summer’s extreme heat
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British households have been issued a critical one-week warning, dubbed the ‘final opportunity’ to salvage their gardens before autumn sets in. Despite the seeming onset of autumn, a horticultural expert warns that there are merely seven days left to take action.
As leaves start to brown and plants begin to wilt, many gardeners might think autumn has arrived early. However, experts warn this is a phenomenon known as ‘false autumn’, a survival tactic by trees and plants pushed to their limits by this summer’s extraordinary heat.
The Met Office explains that extreme weather can cause plants to behave as if the season has changed, even though it’s still officially summer.
But with astronomical autumn starting on 22 September, time is running out to undo the damage, according to the Manchester Evening News.
“”False autumn isn’t a picturesque seasonal change. It’s a warning sign that gardens are in distress,” cautions Liam Cleary, gardening expert at Old Railway Line Garden Centre” reports the Mirror.
“Acting now could be the difference between losing plants this winter or seeing them thrive next spring. If you don’t help your plants recover before colder weather sets in, the stress of false autumn could leave them too weak to survive the winter,” he added.
“Weeks of high temperatures left soil baked and compacted, meaning even recent rainfall hasn’t been able to penetrate deeply enough to sustain roots. Without urgent action, gardens risk long-term decline.”
The expert’s three-step garden recovery plan
Cleary recommends three easy steps that gardening enthusiasts should put into action immediately. By adhering to these three simple guidelines, gardeners can ensure their outdoor spaces stay lush and well-kept as we transition from summer to autumn and even winter.
Mulch technique
Scatter bark or wood chips around the base of plants to preserve moisture and restore the soil’s sponge-like texture.
Thorough watering
Use a watering can or drip hose for slow, accurate watering so that moisture reaches the roots beneath the compacted surface.
Nutrient boost
Apply a liquid fertiliser to give plants the energy they need to recover and build strength before winter.
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