Your Guide to October Gardening Tasks
As the vibrant hues of autumn begin to paint the landscape, it's time to turn our attention to the October garden tasks that will ensure our outdoor spaces remain beautiful and well-maintained throughout the season. October brings a unique set of challenges and opportunities for gardeners, with the transition from late summer to early fall requiring careful planning and action. In this guide, we'll walk you through the essential October garden tasks that will keep your garden thriving as the leaves start to fall and the temperatures begin to drop. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just starting out, these tasks will help you make the most of this glorious autumn month in your garden.
This is an ideal time to transplant trees and shrubs.
Prune climbing roses once they’ve finished flowering and tie in the stems before autumn winds cause damage.
Clear up fallen rose leaves to prevent diseases such as black spot from over-wintering – do not compost the leaves.
Cut back perennial plants that have died down or alternatively leave the dead foliage in place for over-wintering wildlife.
Lift and divide any overcrowded herbaceous perennials while the soil is still warm.
Plant daffodil bulbs, tulip bulbs and Allium bulbs for a beautiful spring display.
Plant bare root ornamental trees and shrubs.
If your summer containers are looking past their prime, re-plant them with fresh fall plants and interesting branches and gourds.
After tidying borders, apply mulch or shredded leaves to insulate plant roots for the winter and keep weed growth in check.
Finish harvesting beans and peas. Cut the plant away at ground level, leaving the roots in the soil. These crops fix nitrogen which is slowly released into the soil as the roots break down.
If you plan to grow beans next year, start preparing the site by digging trenches and filling with manure or kitchen waste.
Harvest squashes and pumpkins before the first frosts. They will quickly turn mushy if left outside!
Any plants with green tomatoes or peppers remaining can be hung upside down indoors to ripen.
Protect autumn cauliflower heads from frost by wrapping the outer leaves around them and securing with string.
Continue to plant autumn garlic bulbs now for a bumper crop next summer.
Cut back yellowing asparagus foliage to within 3 inches of the ground.
Clear up fallen leaves regularly to allow light to the grass.
Other Blog Posts You May Be Interested In:
A Guide to Fall Annuals for Your Garden
7 Gorgeous Perennials That Defy Deer: A Gardener's Guide to Deer-Resistant Plants
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