Autumn is a time of transition in the garden, as the days shorten and the temperatures cool. Despite the changing seasons, there are still plenty of Autumn Gardening Jobs to do, keeping your outdoor space looking its best and preparing for the winter ahead.

Protecting Paving

Cleaning and protecting your patio slabs is an essential task to ensure it remains in good condition throughout the winter months. Here are some tips:

1. Remove Leaves

Removing fallen leaves from garden paving is a crucial task during the autumn months in the UK. Not only does it improve the appearance of your outdoor space, but it also prevents safety hazards and helps to maintain the life of your paving.

Tips for Efficient Leaf Raking

  • Use the Right Tools: Consider using a leaf blower for larger and paved areas to reduce the possibility of scratching your patio paving.
  • Start Early: Don't wait for leaves to pile up before removing them. The sooner you start, the easier it will be to manage.
  • Work in Sections: Divide your garden into smaller sections to make the task more manageable.
  • Dispose of Leaves Properly: Compost fallen leaves, move them to a designated part of the garden or use them as mulch in your garden beds. Avoid burning or binning them as this ensures no creatures are harmed in the process. A hearty leaf cover provides a habitat during the cold winter months for critical pollinating species such as bees, butterflies and moths.
pexels free image of autumnn leaves
limestone paving with table centre.

2. Sort Furniture and Plant Pots

  • Store Indoors: If possible, store your patio furniture indoors during the winter to protect it from the elements. This is especially important for wooden or metal furniture, which can be susceptible to rot, rust, or damage which may then damage the flagstones underneath. If you have any potted plants on your patio, consider moving them indoors for the winter. This will protect them from frost and cold temperatures.
  • Cover with a Waterproof Cover: If you cannot store your furniture indoors, cover it with a waterproof cover. Ensure the cover is large enough to protect the entire piece of furniture and that it is secured properly to prevent it from blowing away in the wind. If you cannot move your potted plants indoors, wrap them in bubble wrap or a frost blanket to protect them from the cold.

3. Clean Garden Paving

Remove Debris: Clear away any leaves, twigs, or other debris that may have accumulated on your patio. This will help prevent staining and rot.

Wash with a Mild Detergent: Use a mild detergent and a stiff-bristled brush to clean your patio. For stubborn stains, you may need to use a stronger cleaning solution like LTP Blackspot and Algae Remover. Avoid using power washers as these can damage the sealant and cause surface erosion.

Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse your paving with clean water to remove any residue from the detergent.

Kandla Grey Sandstone in sunny back garden

General Autumn Gardening Jobs

Protecting Tender Plants

Many plants, especially those native to warmer climates, are susceptible to frost damage. To protect them, cover them with fleece, row covers, or cold frames. For particularly tender plants, consider moving them indoors to a greenhouse or sheltered area.

Mulching

Applying a layer of mulch to your garden beds can provide numerous benefits:

  • Moisture retention: Mulch helps to retain soil moisture, reducing the need for frequent watering.
  • Weed suppression: Mulch can help to suppress weeds, reducing competition for resources.
  • Soil protection: Mulch protects the soil from erosion and temperature fluctuations.
  • Nutrient enrichment: As mulch decomposes, it releases nutrients into the soil, benefiting your plants.

Common mulching materials in the UK include:

  • Compost: A natural and nutrient-rich option.
  • Bark chips: A decorative and long-lasting choice.
  • Straw: A good insulator for protecting plants from frost.
  • Leaves: A free and readily available option, but ensure they are free of pests and diseases.

Cleaning and Sharpening Garden Tools

Properly maintained tools are essential for efficient and effective gardening. Clean your tools after each use to remove dirt, debris, and sap. Sharpen blades regularly to ensure clean cuts and prevent damage to plants.

Pruning

Pruning is an important aspect of maintaining the health and appearance of your garden. Remove dead or diseased branches, and shape shrubs and trees to your desired size. Pruning can also encourage new growth and improve flowering.

Protecting Your Lawn

To prepare your lawn for the winter, consider the following:

  • Aerating: Aeration helps to improve soil drainage and reduce compaction, allowing your lawn to breathe.
  • Fertilising: Apply a winter lawn feed to provide essential nutrients and help your lawn recover from the stresses of the growing season.
  • Mowing: Mow your lawn at a slightly lower height in the autumn to reduce the risk of fungal diseases.

Feeding the Birds

Winter can be a challenging time for birds, especially in the UK. Providing food and water can help to support local wildlife. Consider putting out bird feeders and providing fresh water regularly.

By completing these essential tasks, you can ensure that your garden remains healthy and vibrant throughout the autumn and winter months.

Autumn Gardening Jobs: What to grow and sow

  • Grow salad leaves: Extend your harvest season by sowing salad seeds in autumn. Varieties like Texsel Greens and Salad Burnet are particularly cold-tolerant.
  • Create fiery flower displays: Plant trees and shrubs with vibrant fall foliage, such as Japanese Maples, Gingko, and Mountain Ash. For colourful flower beds, consider Japanese Anemones, Sedums, and Michaelmas Daisies.
  • Sow hardy annuals: Get a head start on next year's blooms by sowing hardy annuals like Sweet Peas.
  • Plant spring-flowering bulbs: Ensure a vibrant spring display by planting bulbs of Daffodils, Crocus, and Hyacinths.
autumn coloured flowers

What to plant in Autumn for winter colour?

If you want to add some winter colour to your garden, you can plant a variety of shrubs and trees. Some of the most popular choices include:

  • Winter berries: Winter berries are a great way to add colour and interest to your garden in the winter months. Some popular choices include holly, firethorn, and berberis.
  • Evergreens: Evergreens will provide your garden with year-round colour and interest. Some popular choices include conifers, rhododendrons, and laurels.
  • Ornamental grasses: Ornamental grasses are a low-maintenance way to add interest and texture to your garden. They'll also provide food and shelter for wildlife.

Escape into Autumn

Every year the National Trust run 'Escape into Autumn' offering free access to those that would benefit the most to access to nature and National Trust properties and gardens. The aim this year is to create opportunities for more people to find awe in natures most colourful season. The National Trust have 500,000 free passes. Soak up the colour and escape into nature.

Autumn is a beautiful but fleeting season, offering a unique opportunity to enjoy the vibrant colours of nature and prepare your garden for the winter ahead. By following the tips and advice in this Autumn Gardening Jobs guide, you can ensure that your outdoor space and flagstone paving remains healthy, vibrant, and enjoyable throughout the colder months.


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About the Author

Sian McHugh

'Sian has been working with us at Westminster Stone for over 5 years and has developed expertise in garden design and landscaping. Her passion for nature extends to tending her own garden, teaching yoga and hiking during her free time.'