As the days get shorter and the temperatures drop, many of us will be spending less time in the garden, but there are still a few essential tasks you need to complete to see crops grow this winter
Katie-Ann Gupwell Content Editor
09:13, 11 Oct 2025
You could grow some delicious leafy greens (stock image)(Image: Lisa Schaetzle via Getty Images)
While many of us relish a bit of gardening, the season for outdoor activities is sadly drawing to a close; however, before we retreat indoors and close our greenhouses for the winter, there are several October gardening tasks you might want to tackle.
For those who enjoy cultivating fruit and vegetables, now is actually an excellent time to sow certain seeds for a bountiful harvest, with some having the potential to sprout “within weeks.” Although it will soon be too chilly for garden work, there are a few vital chores that need to be done before the frost sets in, as they will aid in producing more delicious food before the year’s end.
David Fryer, an expert at Mr Fothergill’s, has provided some invaluable advice. With over 30,000 followers on Instagram, the brand has been motivating gardeners since as far back as 1978 – and David has imparted all sorts of tips, including the significance of finishing a key greenhouse task before autumn ends.
He stated: “Beyond harvesting, autumn is still an excellent time for late-season sowings. In September and early October, the soil still retains some warmth and, with it being a little wetter, conditions are ideal for the quick germination of several crops.
“As a first approach, it is best to focus on quick-growing leafy veg, which will be ready before the frosts, or crops that are frost-hardy and will grow through the winter.
“Rocket and watercress are peppery-flavoured leafy vegetables that thrive in the cooler autumn conditions, are rich in vitamins and add great flavour to salads. Ideal choices are cold-hardy spinach varieties (giant winter) or perpetual beet leaf spinach, which is a milder alternative.
“Some varieties of lettuce are cold-tolerant, such as the cos type (winter density), and will provide fresh leaves throughout winter. It is recommended to sow outdoors from August onwards.
“These varieties grow stronger with some protection, such as under a cloche or with a fleece covering, especially when they are small.”
Make the most of your crops this autumn (stock image)(Image: Getty Images)
Additionally, he provided guidance on several winter-resistant vegetables as well. He explained they are best planted or sown during autumn to allow them to become established before the harshest weather arrives, then resume development in spring, delivering the earliest crops for the following year.
Broad beans make an excellent choice, and you can plant varieties such as Aquadulce or Sutton from late September through November for early summer yields. Ensure adequate spacing when planting, as they require at least 20cm between each plant.
Overwintering onion sets, such as the long-necked, red-skinned electric and mild, white-skinned snowball, are also recommended for this season. Plant them in September or October and ensure your soil is free from weeds. If necessary, use straw mulch to suppress weed growth.
David further advised: “Also, garlic, such as Provence Wight, when planted from September to November, will produce fat and juicy cloves. Growing through the winter cold allows for proper vernalisation of the largest bulbs, ready for next summer.
“Peas that you can sow outdoors early, such as Meteor, are a fantastic choice if you want a hardy one to overwinter, giving you the earliest possible crops with excellent yield and flavour.”
Autumn generally marks a significant shift in the garden, with shorter days and falling temperatures. It’s often an ideal time to start tidying up and preparing for the upcoming season.
However, David emphasised that the current season isn’t over yet and still has plenty to offer. By following his advice, you can continue to work on your garden while improving your prospects for the following year.
Completing a few straightforward tasks could significantly enhance your harvest next year. There’s even time to grow some more vegetables ready for the winter months too.
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