October is a time of transformation in the garden, as vibrant autumn colors begin to settle into the cooler months. It's a season for preparing your garden for the coming winter while setting the stage for a strong start next spring. Whether you're digging over veg plots, planting spring bulbs, or bringing in your citrus trees, there’s plenty to do to keep your garden thriving. Here are your essential October gardening tips for the UK!
1. Dig Over Veg Plots and Add Green Manure
Now is the time to dig over your vegetable plots to improve soil structure and prepare the ground for next year’s crops. Adding green manure such as clover or mustard will replenish nutrients and improve soil fertility over the winter. This will ensure that your veg beds are in top shape when planting season arrives.
2. Order Bare-Root Fruit Canes and Bushes
If you’re thinking about expanding your fruit garden, now is the perfect time to order bare-root fruit canes and bushes. Planting these later in the year gives them plenty of time to settle over the winter, ready to burst into life next spring. Popular choices include raspberries, blackberries, and gooseberries.
3. Sow Over-Wintering Peas and Broad Beans
Extend your vegetable harvest by sowing over-wintering varieties of peas and broad beans this month. These hardy crops will begin to establish before winter and give you a head start for next year. Be sure to protect them with fleece or cloches if the temperature drops to prevent frost damage.
4. Plant Onion Sets, Garlic, and Spring Bulbs
October is the perfect time to plant onion sets and garlic, ensuring they establish roots before the cold sets in. This also goes for your spring bulbs—daffodils, tulips, and crocuses should be planted now for a dazzling display of blooms come spring. Make sure to plant them at the right depth for best results.
5. Bring Citrus Trees Indoors
As temperatures drop, it’s essential to bring your citrus trees indoors to protect them from the cold. Once inside, reduce watering and avoid overfeeding—citrus trees prefer a little less water during their winter dormancy. Place them in a sunny spot to keep them happy through the colder months.
6. Mulch Your Borders
Give your borders a boost this autumn by applying a thick layer of mulch, such as composted bark or leaf mold. Mulching not only helps suppress weeds but also insulates the soil, protecting plant roots from winter frost. This simple task is key to keeping your garden healthy through the winter.
October may feel like the end of the growing season, but it’s really just the beginning of your preparations for next year. By following these tips, you’ll ensure that your garden is ready to face the winter months and blossom beautifully come spring. So grab your tools, breathe in that crisp autumn air, and get to work—your garden will thank you for it!