B&Q’s Head of Horticulture, Mairi Devlin, said: “It may seem like there are fewer jobs in the garden from October to February.
“However, the work you do to prepare in these months will be worth it when spring comes around.”
As for October, “this is the season where thoughtful care and planning pay off”.
Mairi recommended taking the last couple of weeks of October to clear any weeds and leaves from the garden, which can be added to your compost bin.
“Continue replacing old summer bedding with winter bedding as the flowers come to an end, and add fresh compost,” advised Mairi.
“You’ll need to occasionally water your plants, but the aim is to keep the compost moist rather than wet.”
Six essential gardening jobs to do in October
- Clear weeds and leaves
- Replace old summer bedding
- Lay a new lawn with turf if required
- Trim hedges
- Add winter feeding stations for wildlife and top up on feed
- Check tree ties in windy weather
As for November, which is approaching fairly quickly, Mairi said: “It’s time to plant your bulbs ahead of spring.”
Elaborating, she said: “Make sure to plant them three times their own depth, and if you have any spare garden compost, spread it over any ground that will be bare for winter, and dig it over.
“Now is also when you need to be careful of strong winds that can lift the roots of newly planted trees and shrubs out of the ground.”
Mairi emphasised: “Be sure to check on your plants and heel them back if needed.”
Key gardening jobs for November
- Clear weeds and leaves
- Plant spring bulbs
- Plant or move deciduous woody plants, such as trees and shrubs
- Bring inside plants like Gladioli and Dahlia Tubers to be stored for the colder months
- Add stakes to newly planted trees
- Add a layer of mulch to your top soil
- Prep garden ponds for the colder temperatures.
Mairi said: “Pruning, composting, and planting winter bulbs helps the soil to stay nourished and ready for the growing season ahead.”
