As winter approaches, there are still tasks to be done in the garden. Here are some important activities for November:
? Begin the winter pruning of fruit trees to maintain their shape, remove dead or diseased branches, and promote healthy growth in the upcoming season. Follow proper pruning techniques and consider seeking guidance if you are unsure.
? Plant fruit trees, soft fruit (such as raspberries and blackberries), and cane fruit (such as blackcurrants and gooseberries). Choose a suitable location with well-drained soil and follow the planting instructions provided with each variety.
? Plant garlic cloves for a bountiful harvest in the following year. Prepare the soil by removing weeds and incorporating organic matter. Plant the cloves with the pointed end up, at a depth of about 2-3 times their length, and space them according to the recommended guidelines.
? Apply grease bands around the trunks of fruit trees to protect them from winter pests such as winter moth caterpillars. These bands prevent the crawling insects from reaching the branches and causing damage.
? Apply a generous layer of compost or well-rotted manure to bare areas of the ground. This will nourish the soil, improve its structure, and help suppress weed growth during the winter months.
? Protect salad plants by covering them with cloches, fleece, or other suitable materials. These protective covers will shield the plants from frost and provide a more favourable microclimate for growth.
? Clear spent or old plants from the garden beds, removing any debris and incorporating them into your compost pile. This helps prevent the build-up of diseases and pests and prepares the garden for the following season.
In November, as you tend to your garden, embrace the quiet beauty of the season and prepare for the restful period ahead. The care and attention you provide now will lay the foundation for a vibrant and flourishing garden in the future. ???
