November signals the true arrival of winter in the garden, with many areas of the UK experiencing cold temperatures and frost. The last of the leaves are now falling, and many plants, including houseplants, are settling into dormancy for the winter months. However, before you hang up your gardening gloves, there are still a few jobs worth tackling before the end of November.
From protecting plants and wildlife to mulching borders, ticking these jobs off your to-do list will keep the garden “healthy, tidy and full of life” through the coldest months, according to Simon Perry, gardening and landscaping expert. The gardener, who has worked with Trex and TrexPro, has shared which jobs should be completed now.
Mulching borders and flower beds
The expert said: “A good mulch acts like a winter blanket for your soil – it keeps roots warm, locks in moisture and keeps weeds at bay through winter.
“Spread a 5-8cm layer of organic matter such as compost, bark or leaf mould around perennials and shrubs, keeping it clear of the plant crown – the junction where the roots and stem meet, at or just above the soil – to prevent rot.”
Plant bulbs
November is a great month to plant bulbs for a burst of colour in spring. Leaving it until December, when the ground is more likely to be freezing, means you may miss the opportunity.
The expert said: “A good rule of thumb is to plant the bulb two to three times as deep as it is tall, placing the bulb with the pointed, or shoot, end facing upwards and the flat, root-bearing end at the bottom.
“Crocuses or snowdrops will give you early colour, while daffodils (narcissus) and tulips will be a welcome sign that spring has arrived. Anemones, fritillaria and alliums will provide interest from spring right through to summer.”
Feed the birds
With fewer berries and insects around, garden birds need all the help they can get. Hang seed feeders, suet balls, or peanut cages, and ensure a regular supply of clean water is available.
Check fences, sheds and other garden structures.
The garden expert explained: “Winter storms can quickly turn small maintenance issues into major repairs. A quick check of garden structures and minor repairs now can save you hassle and expense later.
“Walk around your garden looking for loose fence panels, wobbly posts and any gaps in roof felt.
“November is also your last chance to add colour to fences or sheds before winter – any dry day before temperatures regularly drop below 5°C is a good opportunity to brush on a coat of paint or wood preservative to keep things weatherproof.”
Add winter interest with pots and evergreens
Evergreen shrubs and winter-flowering pots will keep the garden “looking alive” through the darker months, while most other plants have died.
Fill containers with hardy plants such as hellebores, heather, skimmia or winter pansies.
Maintain your deck and patio
Simon said: “A quick clean of your deck or patio in November helps prevent algae and dirt from building up over winter. Even if you’ve given it a clean at the end of summer, now’s the time to sweep away fallen leaves and debris before a simple wash-down to stop surfaces from getting slippery.
“For paved patios or timber decking, use a mild detergent or specialist cleaner with a stiff brush or low-pressure washer. Composite decking typically requires only a gentle wash with a mild detergent and a rinse to maintain its appearance.
“To avoid mould developing, November is also a great time to clean your barbecue or pizza oven before putting them away for winter.”
Make plans for next year
Whether it’s sketching out ideas for new borders or vegetable beds, or ordering seeds and bulbs, making plans for next year is a great way to keep “gardening spirit” alive even through the darkest days of winter.
