in THE GARDEN... |
October is autumn in full swing: golden leaves, crisp mornings and the garden winding down for winter. Yet it’ s also one of the busiest and most rewarding months, as you plant for the future and prepare your garden for colder days ahead. Plant Spring Bulbs There’ s still time to plant tulips, daffodils, hyacinths and fritillaries. Tulips can go in later in the month, reducing the risk of tulip fire disease. Plant bulbs at three times their own depth in well-drained soil to avoid rotting.
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Lift Tender Plants Before frosts arrive, lift and store dahlias, cannas and gladioli. Cut back foliage, dry tubers, and store them in trays of dry compost or sand somewhere frost-free. Check tubers occasionally for rot and remove any soft parts promptly.
Rake and Compost Leaves Fallen leaves can quickly smother grass and borders. Rake them up and store in bin bags or a leaf cage to create lovely leaf mould. Shred large leaves like sycamore or horse chestnut first so they break down more quickly.
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Prune Climbing Roses Reduce long shoots on climbing roses to prevent wind damage. Tie in any loose canes securely to supports. Avoid hard pruning now – leave major pruning for late winter.
Divide Perennials Continue lifting and dividing overcrowded perennials like irises, phlox and asters to refresh clumps and make new plants. Replant divisions promptly and water them well until established.
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