As the golden light of autumn begins to dapple our gardens, the nation's favourite horticulturist, Monty Don, has shared his indispensable guide for the month of September. This pivotal period is not about winding down, but about strategic work that sets the stage for a spectacular spring display.
The Prime Time for Planting Spring Bulbs
Monty emphasises that September is the absolute ideal moment to get spring-flowering bulbs into the earth. The soil retains its summer warmth, encouraging strong root development before the winter chill sets in. This is your chance to plan for a breathtaking cascade of colour come April and May.
Focus on:
- Daffodils: Get these in by the end of the month for a cheerful display.
- Crocuses: Perfect for naturalising in lawns.
- Hyacinths: For containers and borders with their iconic fragrance.
Lawn Renovation: The Secret to a Perfect Green Carpet
Forget spring; autumn is the true season for lawn love. Monty advises that this is the perfect time for sowing new grass seed or repairing patchy areas. The combination of warm soil, increased moisture, and less competition from weeds creates the perfect germination conditions.
"The grass will establish quickly now," says Monty, "giving you a robust and lush lawn that will be the envy of the street next year."
Strategic Pruning & Tidying
While it's tempting to give everything a drastic chop, Monty urges a more measured approach. Rambling roses can be pruned once they've finished flowering to prevent wind rock from damaging their roots. However, he strongly cautions against cutting back woody plants too early, as the new growth will be vulnerable to the first frosts.
Instead, focus on deadheading annuals and perennials to prolong their flowering period well into the autumn.
Feeding for Future Growth
Don't put the fertiliser away just yet! Monty recommends giving hedges a final feed to encourage strong, dense growth before they become dormant. This will ensure they remain a healthy and vibrant garden feature throughout the winter months.
By following this expert advice, your garden will not only end the current season beautifully but will be perfectly prepared for a triumphant return after the winter.
