As winter approaches, gardeners are being urged to complete five essential tasks before the first frost arrives. Paul Parker, gardening expert at plants and bulbs specialists J. Parker's, has shared his advice for the final days of October and early November.
Plant Spring Bulbs
If you haven't planted spring bulbs yet, it's not too late to get them in the ground before frost arrives, though this should ideally be done in early autumn. Parker advises thinking carefully about placement to create a stunning display once the weather warms again.
He recommends playing with different heights and textures, suggesting tulips, daffodils and alliums as taller-flowering varieties, mixed with Fritillaria, miniature narcissi and crocuses for lower-growing interest.
Prune Climbing Roses
October and November are suitable times to prune climbing roses. Parker advises avoiding vigorous pruning, saying: "Climbing roses shouldn't need a vigorous pruning." He recommends avoiding the main framework of stems altogether, only cutting side shoots that are crossing or sticking out down to just above the bud.
In early autumn, the focus should be on pruning long shoots that may be susceptible to wind damage. However, if the plant is less than two years old, pruning should be avoided to prevent stunting its growth.
Lift Tender Plants
With occasional frosts possibly not far away, it is important to lift tender bulbs and tubers over the next few weeks. Parker says it's best for plants such as dahlias and begonias to be lifted and stored inside over winter to protect their delicate tubers once cold weather hits.
To do this, wait for the first frost to blacken the leaves, then use a garden fork to gently lift out the tuber clump. Once removed, leave the tubers to dry upside down for a couple of days so the stems can dry out. Over winter, store them in a moisture-free, cool area such as a garage or shed.
Make Compost from Leaves
As leaves fall from trees, rather than throwing them away, they can be used as compost. Add fresh grass clippings rich in nitrogen from spring and summer, keep the pile moist but not wet, and ensure it is well aerated. In a year or two, this will produce compost to add vital nutrients to the soil.
Move Rooted Plants
Late October and early November is the ideal time to move rooted plants as they enter their dormant stage. Parker explains: "By late autumn, once your trees, shrubs, climbers, and hedging are fully defoliated, they have entered their dormant phase."
These plants can be lifted and moved to a new spot in the garden. Late October is ideal because the soil is still warm, leaving time for roots to establish in their new position before winter frost fully kicks in.
