Autumn in the garden

Autumn in the garden

It's October already, and autumn is here. The leaves on the trees are turning from their calm summer greens to the fiery yellows and reds, like slowly spreading flames. Late summer warmth is giving way to crisp mornings where breath appears like mist in the cool, sharp air. The first frosts have already been felt, and the nights creep in. It's one of the most beautiful times of the year, and a great time to enjoy your garden, even if you might now need hat and scarf.

But as Ned Stark of Game of Thrones is fond of saying, "Winter is coming". And although the winter in the UK might not bring the monstrous Walkers that threaten Westoros in G R R Martin's fantasy series, there is still plenty to be done in the autumn months to prepare the garden.

So what should you be doing in the autumn in your garden, both to make the most of it now, and to maintain and care for it for the winter and spring ahead?

Enjoy autumn fruits

Autumn offers a fine harvest of fruits, especially delicious cox apples. With Halloween at the end of the month, it's also the time of year for pumpkins. Sweet chestnuts can also be collected and eaten. Just don't confuse them with horse chestnuts - you can't eat conkers! There's also still chance to catch some blackberries - blackberry and apple crumble, anyone?

Play conkers

If you're lucky enough to have a horse chestnut tree in your garden, you can gather up some conkers, drill a hole and add a shoelace, and play a traditional game of conkers. Who needs Angry Birds?

Take care of your outdoor furniture

Our metal garden furniture, such as Fermob's great designs, are very durable and weatherproof. But if you're not using them over the autumn and winter months, it's a good idea to cover them or put them away. Read our tips on Caring for your Metal Furniture.

Clear away leaves

As leaves fall from the trees, you'll want to get your rake out to clear your garden. It both looks better and will save you time in spring when it comes to planting. You can make mulch from fallen leaves, or just add them to your compost heap.

Beat the frost

Keep plants warm by covering them or mulching. Cover/insulated potted plants, or take them indoors - if the soil freezes, it can kill the plant roots. Tend and trim existing plants of dying leaves, to encourage root growth rather than maintaining leaves.

Plant for the spring

Although autumn is here and winter is coming, they will of course be followed by spring, and it's important for gardeners to plan and plant ahead. It's time to plant spring bulbs such as daffodils and tulips, as well as new trees and winter and spring bedding.

Posted by Iconography Ltd
5th October 2012
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