Preparing Your Garden for Autumn

Many gardeners prefer working during autumn. For one, the soil is warmer, which makes planting favourable. And second, and probably more importantly, the weather is just right — not too cool nor too warm.

If you wish to take advantage of these conditions, here are some helpful tips.

Mulching and composting

If you have not begun mulching your garden, you are missing out on some few crucial benefits like the increased moisture retention of the soil and fewer weeds. Mulches can also improve soil quality by providing much-needed nutrients.

As the trees begin to shed their leaves during autumn, you now have more materials for your garden compost. Apart from fallen leaves, you can use kitchen scraps and lawn clippings to add to your compost heap.

Applying fertilisers

Experts recommend applying fertilisers on lawns twice a year. Autumn is one of the best times to do that as the nutrients you provide can fortify the grass against harsh winter conditions and make it ready for the following season.

Pruning plants and trees

From time to time, trees need to be pruned for two important reasons. First, pruning helps improve the health of the trees. Second, this task improves the overall appearance of the trees and facilitates the growth of new branches.

Perennials like daisy bushes, buddlejas, and salvias can also benefit from pruning, making these plants beautiful and ready by summer time. Pruning plants is relatively simple. All you need to do is to remove dead matter, including old flowers. If there are diseased parts, you will need to remove these, but be careful not to put these in your compost bin.

Adding fruit trees to your garden

If you have been thinking of adding a few fruit trees on your property, autumn is the best time to do that. Planting trees in autumn will give these ample time to grow and develop right before summer sets in. Just remember to space trees, other plants and structures a good distance apart.

Planting bulbs

Bulbs can add a dash of colour to spring gardens but most of the hard work is done during autumn. Planting the bulbs during autumn gives the plants enough time and room to grow and once spring rolls in, the bulbs are ready to flourish.

Dealing with pests

Consider adding dill to your garden as this herb can repel pests like the Cabbage White Butterfly. Dill can protect veggies like cabbages, broccoli, and cauliflower. Pennyroyal, on the other hand, can help repel mosquitoes.