Jobs in the Garden: October 2024

As autumn settles in, October is a busy month for gardeners in the UK. With cooler temperatures and shorter days, it's time to prepare your garden for the winter months ahead, while still enjoying the late-season blooms and harvest. Here are some key jobs to tackle in your garden this October

Plant Spring Bulbs: October is the perfect time to plant bulbs like daffodils, tulips, and crocuses. Make sure to plant them in well-drained soil and at the right depth to ensure a beautiful spring display.

Tidy Up Borders: Clear away dead or diseased plants, and prune back perennials that have finished flowering. This keeps your garden neat and reduces the risk of pests overwintering.

Rake Leaves: Fallen leaves can smother your lawn and flower beds, so it’s important to rake them up regularly. Add them to your compost pile to create nutrient-rich leaf mould for next year.

Harvest Late Vegetables: Pick the last of your autumn crops such as pumpkins, squashes, and root vegetables. Store them in a cool, dry place for winter use.

Protect Delicate Plants: Bring tender plants like fuchsias and pelargoniums indoors or to a greenhouse. Use cloches or fleece to protect less hardy plants still in the ground.

By taking care of these tasks, you'll ensure your garden is healthy and ready to thrive when spring returns!