As temperatures drop and daylight hours shorten, October is a crucial month for gardeners, according to Paul Parker, horticultural expert at bulb and plant specialists J. Parker's. He has shared five essential jobs to ensure your garden remains in top condition and is ready for spring 2027.
Plant spring bulbs for a colourful display
Parker's first recommendation is to plan your planting strategy carefully, considering placement to guarantee a stunning display when warmer weather arrives. He advises playing with different heights and textures, suggesting taller-flowering varieties such as tulips, daffodils and alliums, mixed with lower-growing options like Fritillaria, miniature narcissi and crocuses.
Prune climbing roses with care
While climbing roses are dormant during colder months, heavy pruning is not necessary, and specimens under two years old should not be pruned at all, as this could hamper their development. Light maintenance is required, but gardeners should avoid the main stem structure and only trim side shoots that appear to be overlapping or pointing downwards.
Only extended shoots vulnerable to wind damage need autumn pruning. Parker also recommends gathering fallen leaves from around the base of plants to help "prevent the spread of fungal diseases".
Lift tender plants before frost
With frosty mornings approaching, it is vital to lift tender bulbs and tubers in the coming weeks, especially varieties such as dahlias and begonias, which can be kept indoors over winter. This protects their delicate nature and allows many to be replanted in spring.
Parker explained: "To do this, wait for the first frost to blacken the leaves. Using a garden fork, gently lift out the tuber clump." Once removed, the tubers should be left to dry upside down for a couple of days so the stems can dry out. Over winter, they should be stored in a moisture-free, cool area such as a garage or shed.
Make use of fallen leaves
Fallen leaves should not be discarded, as they create excellent compost. Adding them to a compost heap with fresh grass clippings helps maintain moisture, and within a year, they should produce nutrient-rich compost ideal for enriching soil.
Move rooted plants while dormant
Parker explains that by late autumn, once trees, shrubs, climbers and hedging are fully defoliated, they have entered their dormant phase. This indicates they are ready to be dug up and relocated to fresh spots, with October presenting an ideal window for transplanting established plants.
As the soil retains its warmth at this time of year, there is sufficient opportunity for root systems to settle into their new positions before winter. However, it is crucial to wait until plants have gone dormant, usually towards the end of the month, for the best chance of success.
