Gardening expert Simon Perry has shared the seven jobs you should complete in your garden before December to keep it “healthy, tidy and full of life” through the coldest months
A Robin redbreast (Image: PA)
The end of November marks winter’s true arrival in the garden, with frost and cold temperatures sweeping across much of the UK. The final leaves are tumbling down, and numerous plants – houseplants included – are entering their winter dormancy period.
But don’t put away those gardening gloves just yet, as there are several essential tasks worth completing before November draws to a close.
From safeguarding plants and wildlife to mulching borders, completing these tasks will ensure your garden remains “healthy, tidy and full of life” throughout the coldest months, according to Simon Perry, a gardening and landscaping expert. The gardener, who has collaborated with Trex and TrexPro, has revealed which jobs need doing now.
Mulching borders and flower beds.
The expert explained: “A good mulch acts like a winter blanket for your soil – it keeps roots warm, locks in moisture and keeps weeds at bay through winter.”, reports the Express.
“Spread a 5-8cm layer of organic matter such as compost, bark or leaf mould around perennials and shrubs, keeping it clear of the plant crown – the junction where the roots and stem meet, at or just above the soil – to prevent rot.”
Plant bulbs.
November is an ideal month to plant bulbs for a splash of colour come spring. Waiting until December, when the ground is more likely to be frozen solid, means you could miss your chance.
The expert advised: “A good rule of thumb is to plant the bulb two to three times as deep as it is tall, placing the bulb with the pointed, or shoot, end facing upwards and the flat, root-bearing end at the bottom.
“Crocuses or snowdrops will give you early colour, while daffodils (narcissus) and tulips will be a welcome sign that spring has arrived. Anemones, fritillaria and alliums will provide interest from spring right through to summer.”
Feed the birds.
With fewer berries and insects about, garden birds need extra support. Put up seed feeders, suet balls or peanut cages, and make sure there’s always fresh, clean water available.
Check fences, sheds and other garden structures.
The gardening expert said: “Winter storms can quickly turn small maintenance issues into major repairs. A quick check of garden structures and minor repairs now can save you hassle and expense later.
“Walk around your garden looking for loose fence panels, wobbly posts and any gaps in roof felt.
“November is also your last chance to add colour to fences or sheds before winter – any dry day before temperatures regularly drop below 5°C is a good opportunity to brush on a coat of paint or wood preservative to keep things weatherproof.”
Add winter interest with pots and evergreens.
Evergreen shrubs and winter-flowering pots will keep the garden “looking alive” during the darker months, whilst most other plants have died back. Fill your pots with hardy plants like hellebores, heather, skimmia or winter pansies.
Keep your deck and patio in good nick.
Simon advised: “A quick clean of your deck or patio in November helps prevent algae and dirt from building up over winter. Even if you’ve given it a clean at the end of summer, now’s the time to sweep away fallen leaves and debris before a simple wash-down to stop surfaces from getting slippery.
“For paved patios or timber decking, use a mild detergent or specialist cleaner with a stiff brush or low-pressure washer. Composite decking typically requires only a gentle wash with a mild detergent and a rinse to maintain its appearance.
“To avoid mould developing, November is also a great time to clean your barbecue or pizza oven before putting them away for winter.”
Plan for the coming year.
Whether it’s sketching out ideas for new borders or vegetable beds, or ordering seeds and bulbs, making plans for next year is a great way to keep the “gardening spirit” alive even through the darkest days of winter.
Comments are closed.