October is one of the most rewarding months in the English garden. The vibrant colours of autumn are at their peak, the heat of summer is a fond memory, and gardeners can enjoy crisp mornings while preparing their plots for winter and the coming spring. A little effort now will pay dividends when the garden wakes up next year.
One of the most important jobs in October is planting spring-flowering bulbs. Daffodils, crocuses and hyacinths should be planted now to establish strong roots before winter. Tulips can be left until November, but most other bulbs benefit from getting into the ground during October. Plant them in borders, lawns or containers to create displays of colour after the dark winter months.
Fallen leaves quickly become a feature of the garden at this time of year. Rather than viewing them as a nuisance, gardeners should collect healthy leaves and store them in a wire cage or black sacks with air holes to create leaf mould. This valuable soil conditioner improves soil structure and moisture retention. However, leaves should be cleared regularly from lawns to prevent yellow patches and encourage healthy grass.
October is also an excellent time to improve the soil. Empty vegetable beds can be cleared of spent crops and weeds before adding well-rotted compost or manure. Winter weather will help break down the organic matter, leaving fertile soil ready for spring planting.
Lawns deserve attention before winter arrives. Give the grass a final cut on a dry day, keeping the blades slightly higher than during summer. Aerating compacted areas with a garden fork and applying an autumn lawn feed will help roots remain healthy through the colder months.
Perennials can be lifted and divided if they have become overcrowded. This rejuvenates plants and provides free additions for other areas of the garden. Hardy herbaceous plants can also be planted now while the soil is still warm.
In the vegetable garden, harvest the last outdoor crops such as pumpkins, squashes and maincrop potatoes before the first hard frosts. Protect winter brassicas with netting where necessary and continue planting garlic and autumn onion sets.
Finally, take time to tidy sheds, clean tools and empty watering systems that may be damaged by frost. Pots and containers should be raised onto feet to improve drainage during wet weather.
Photo by Alisa Anton on Unsplash
October represents a season of preparation and opportunity. By planting, tidying and improving the soil now, gardeners lay the foundations for a healthy and colourful garden in the year ahead.