Summer has officially ended and autumn is under way. Evenings are becoming cooler, although we may still enjoy a few warm, bright days before colder weather arrives.
The garden is changing quickly, making October an important month for tidying, planting and preparing for winter.
Tired summer bedding can now be removed and replaced with pansies, violas, wallflowers and other autumn plants that will provide welcome colour through the colder months.
October is also the perfect time to plant spring-flowering bulbs. Daffodils, tulips, crocuses, hyacinths and alliums can provide a wonderful succession of colour from early spring onwards.
Gather remaining apples and pears before early frosts arrive, checking that the fruit is ripe before picking. Lift potatoes and store them somewhere dry and frost-free. Once vegetable beds have been cleared, begin winter digging and incorporate well-rotted compost or manure to improve the soil.
Grease bands can also be fitted around fruit trees to help prevent crawling pests from reaching the branches. If space allows, consider planting new fruit trees or bushes later in the month.
In flower borders, divide congested herbaceous plants and introduce new varieties while the soil remains workable. Dahlias and canna lilies should be lifted before frost causes damage and stored over winter. Half-hardy fuchsias can be potted and moved to a cool, frost-free place. Keep them moist without overwatering.
Remove fallen leaves from beds, particularly around alpines and rockery plants, where damp material can restrict airflow and encourage rotting. Healthy leaves can be collected separately and turned into leaf mould.
Refresh pots and containers with autumn or winter bedding, underplanting with bulbs for additional spring colour. A conifer or evergreen shrub makes an attractive centrepiece and provides year-round structure.
Continue feeding garden birds and keep baths and water feeders topped up during dry spells. Japanese acers, autumn crocuses, herbaceous anemones, Virginia creeper and Boston ivy are among the plants offering seasonal interest.
Farnborough Garden Centre has a selection of plants, bulbs, containers and gardening essentials to help prepare your garden for the months ahead.
Happy Gardening, Pete.
