Published: 02 September 2024
It has felt like a very short summer this year. Nevertheless, as we slide gently towards the end of August, autumn is within touching distance. And that means that it it’s time to make some seasonal changes to the garden. Here are a few of the jobs that we’ll be dealing with in the Holker Hall gardens during the course of the next few months. There may be some that you need to do too.
8 Steps to Prepare your Garden for Autumn
Have a good tidy
The Holker team do a fantastic job of keeping the garden in order throughout the year. But even they can’t stay on top of everything in the busiest and blousiest of months. So, tidying has to be a priority. This means clearing any debris, weeding, tidying your veg patch, and gathering any fallen leaves to make leaf mould.
Get mowing and pruning
Many of us don’t mow our lawns in winter because the ground is just too wet. And the grass grows more slowly anyway. But giving it a good cut before the autumn rain starts to fall will help to keep the grass healthy. If you have drainage issues, aerating the lawn is also a good idea. Now is also the time to cut back perennials, shrubs that flower on growth from the previous year, and summer fruit bushes.
Mulch
It doesn’t matter how well established your garden is, it will always benefit from mulching in autumn. It not only adds nutrients to the soil, but can help to protect plants against the coming winter frosts. It also suppresses weeds. And remember, if you haven’t got much mulch, it’s better to cover one area with a thick layer (2-4 inches) and focus on another area next time. Than to spread your mulch too thinly.
Lift any tender plants
Some of our favourite summer blooms belong to tender plants, such as dahlias, cannas, fuchsias, and begonias. Unfortunately, that means that if you leave them in the garden, they won’t come back next year. But if you lift them and protect them, you can plant them out again in the spring.
Clean your tools
Some people find this process therapeutic. Others see it as a chore. But cleaning your tools can help to prevent the spread of any plant diseases, as well as ensuring that everything you need is in good working order for next year. If you have a greenhouse, it’s a good idea to give that once over too, while you’re at it!
Put away your garden furniture
Some garden furniture will last in all weathers. But many need to be stored overwinter if you want them to see you through another year. Now is a good time to cover and protect before the worst of the weather arrives.
Carry out any repairs
As the plants start to put themselves to bed for another year, any damage to structures within the garden start to be revealed. Now is the time to deal with them. So, check your fences, gates, shed, arbours, and obelisks. Fix any problems and consider a coat of varnish in preparation for winter.
Plant bulbs
Bulbs have to be the highlight of spring, and autumn is the time to plant most of them. So, whether you’re planning on putting tulips into pots or crocuses in your lawn, get to the garden centre and then get planting.
Autumn can be a busy time in the garden, it’s all about getting ready for the winter lull. So, take a minute to inspect your borders. Make a note of what needs doing. Then get out and enjoy the autumn colour and sunshine, it may not be around for too long!
Finished with your own garden? Come on over and enjoy the Holker Hall gardens and a treat from the Courtyard café!