Gardening skilled Simon Perry has shared the seven jobs you must full in your backyard earlier than December to maintain it “wholesome, tidy and lively” by means of the coldest months
The top of November marks winter’s true arrival within the backyard, with frost and chilly temperatures sweeping throughout a lot of the UK. The ultimate leaves are tumbling down, and quite a few crops – houseplants included – are getting into their winter dormancy interval.
However do not put away these gardening gloves simply but, as there are a number of important duties value finishing earlier than November attracts to an in depth.
From safeguarding crops and wildlife to mulching borders, finishing these duties will guarantee your backyard stays “wholesome, tidy and lively” all through the coldest months, in response to Simon Perry, a gardening and landscaping skilled. The gardener, who has collaborated with Trex and TrexPro, has revealed which jobs want doing now.
Mulching borders and flower beds.
The skilled defined: “A very good mulch acts like a winter blanket on your soil – it retains roots heat, locks in moisture and retains weeds at bay by means of winter.”, experiences the Specific.
“Unfold a 5-8cm layer of natural matter akin to compost, bark or leaf mould round perennials and shrubs, maintaining it away from the plant crown – the junction the place the roots and stem meet, at or simply above the soil – to forestall rot.”
Plant bulbs.
November is a perfect month to plant bulbs for a splash of color come spring. Ready till December, when the bottom is extra more likely to be frozen strong, means you could possibly miss your likelihood.
The skilled suggested: “A very good rule of thumb is to plant the bulb two to 3 instances as deep as it’s tall, inserting the bulb with the pointed, or shoot, finish going through upwards and the flat, root-bearing finish on the backside.
“Crocuses or snowdrops offers you early color, whereas daffodils (narcissus) and tulips will likely be a welcome signal that spring has arrived. Anemones, fritillaria and alliums will present curiosity from spring proper by means of to summer season.”
Feed the birds.
With fewer berries and bugs about, backyard birds want additional assist. Put up seed feeders, suet balls or peanut cages, and ensure there’s all the time contemporary, clear water accessible.
Examine fences, sheds and different backyard constructions.
The gardening skilled mentioned: “Winter storms can shortly flip small upkeep points into main repairs. A fast verify of backyard constructions and minor repairs now can prevent problem and expense later.
“Stroll round your backyard in search of unfastened fence panels, wobbly posts and any gaps in roof felt.
“November can also be your final likelihood so as to add color to fences or sheds earlier than winter – any dry day earlier than temperatures usually drop under 5°C is an efficient alternative to brush on a coat of paint or wooden preservative to maintain issues weatherproof.”
Add winter curiosity with pots and evergreens.
Evergreen shrubs and winter-flowering pots will maintain the backyard “wanting alive” throughout the darker months, while most different crops have died again. Fill your pots with hardy crops like hellebores, heather, skimmia or winter pansies.
Hold your deck and patio in good nick.
Simon suggested: “A fast clear of your deck or patio in November helps forestall algae and grime from build up over winter. Even in case you’ve given it a clear on the finish of summer season, now’s the time to brush away fallen leaves and particles earlier than a easy wash-down to cease surfaces from getting slippery.
“For paved patios or timber decking, use a gentle detergent or specialist cleaner with a stiff brush or low-pressure washer. Composite decking sometimes requires solely a delicate wash with a gentle detergent and a rinse to take care of its look.
“To keep away from mould growing, November can also be a good time to wash your barbecue or pizza oven earlier than placing them away for winter.”
Plan for the approaching 12 months.
Whether or not it is sketching out concepts for brand spanking new borders or vegetable beds, or ordering seeds and bulbs, planning for subsequent 12 months is an effective way to maintain the “gardening spirit” alive even by means of the darkest days of winter.
