After a long hot summer winter seems a long way off. However, with the threat of rainstorms and nights drawing in now is the time to start thinking about preparing your garden for winter.
This handy guide will help remind of tasks that need to be completed as well as provide advice on which tools and products will help you protect your garden and ensure it looks great next year.
Firstly, start to clean up borders, patios and paths. Remove any dead plants, clearing out any annuals and dead plant material. If you weed thoroughly now, you can prevent weed from overwintering and spreading come spring. Don’t forget to check the mortar and joints in your paving and patios. If you cannot pull these weeds by hand, you should consider using a weedkiller. Make sure to rake leaves , especially from lawns and borders. Make your life easier with a leaf grabber when you are bagging leaves for collection or disposal.
Late summer/Autumn is also the time to trim your perennials unless they provide winter interest. Try to make clean cuts with sharp secateurs to reduce the chance of plant disease. Once pruned, add a layer of mulch (compost, bark or leaf mould) to insulate plant roots and improve your soil.
Your grass will soon stop growing and you can give that final cut with your mover. Now is also the time to aerate and feed your lawn to strengthen the roots of the grass.
Stop rust or damage by cleaning and storing your tools, including draining hoses and irrigation systems to avoid freezing damage. Cover furniture with waterproof tarpaulins and delicate plants and potted plants with fleece or hessian to prevent frost damage.
Your fencing and garden structures can be painted or stained in September before the average temperature drops below 10C. This will provide rain and frost protection. Now is also the time to apply a sealant for your stone, concrete or block paved paths, driveways and patios.
A little thought and work at the end of this summer will ensure that your garden will be ready to enjoy and look in great shape next Spring.
