October is when autumn truly arrives in the garden…

Trees begin to turn shades of gold, amber and red, leaves drift onto paths and lawns, and the softer autumn light brings a different kind of beauty to the garden.

There are still plenty of jobs to enjoy this month, from planting spring bulbs to preparing plants and soil for winter.

Plant Spring Bulbs

If you haven’t already planted your spring bulbs, October is the perfect time to get started. Daffodils, crocuses, alliums and other bulbs can all be planted now, while tulips are best planted a little later in autumn.

Plant generously for the best effect, whether you’re filling borders, naturalising bulbs in grass or adding spring colour to containers.

Prepare for Frost

Tender plants will need some attention as temperatures begin to fall. Dahlias, cannas and other tender perennials can be lifted and stored in a frost-free place, while plants that are staying outdoors may need protection from cold weather.

Move vulnerable containers into a sheltered position and keep fleece handy for unexpected cold snaps.

Make the Most of the Harvest

The vegetable garden is still productive in October. Harvest pumpkins and winter squash once they have ripened, and continue gathering late crops before the first hard frosts.

Clear away finished vegetable plants and remove any diseased material. Healthy plant debris can go onto the compost heap, while empty beds can be covered with compost or well-rotted manure to improve the soil over the winter months.

Welcome Autumn Colour

October is a wonderful month to appreciate the changing colours of the garden. If you’re planning future planting, make a note of trees, shrubs and perennials that are providing particularly beautiful autumn displays.

A garden designed with the seasons in mind can offer colour and interest throughout the year, from spring blossom and summer flowers to autumn foliage and winter berries.

Leave Some Leaves for Wildlife

Fallen leaves can quickly become a gardening job, but they are also a valuable resource. Clear them from lawns and paths, where they can become slippery, but consider leaving some in quiet corners of the garden.

Leaf piles provide shelter for insects and other wildlife, while collected leaves can eventually become rich leaf mould – an excellent soil improver for future years.

October is a month to slow down and enjoy the changing season. The garden may be preparing for winter, but there’s still so much colour, texture and wildlife to discover.

Why not come and enjoy the autumn colour at Batsford? A walk through the arboretum is a wonderful way to experience the season, before popping into our Garden Centre for plants and inspiration for your own garden.

 

Happy gardening!