As autumn settles in, the garden undergoes a transformation. Here are some essential tasks to carry out in October:
? Refill bird feeders regularly to provide nourishment for our feathered friends. As natural food sources become scarcer, your bird feeders will attract a variety of delightful visitors to your garden.
? Install insect hotels or create log piles to provide shelter for beneficial insects. These small structures offer a safe haven for pollinators and other beneficial creatures, contributing to a balanced and thriving ecosystem in your garden.
? Apply an autumn lawn feed to nourish and strengthen your lawn. This specialized fertilizer is formulated to support root development and prepare your grass for the challenges of winter.
? Continue adding garden waste to your compost heap. Fallen leaves, spent foliage, and other organic matter can be composted to create nutrient-rich humus for your garden. Remember to balance the carbon-to-nitrogen ratio by adding a mix of "green" (nitrogen-rich) and "brown" (carbon-rich) materials.
? Clear away fallen leaves from paths, lawns, and flower beds regularly. Excessive leaf cover can hinder the growth of grass and smother delicate plants. You can use the collected leaves as a valuable addition to your compost pile.
? Protect tender plants from frost by covering them with horticultural fleece or cloches. Monitor weather forecasts and be prepared to provide extra protection during cold snaps.
? Take time to enjoy the autumnal beauty of your garden. Savour the vibrant colours, breathe in the crisp air, and appreciate the changing tapestry of nature.
Other jobs to do
As autumn settles in, October brings a tapestry of colours to the garden and invites you to prepare for the colder months ahead. Here are important tasks to focus on during this beautiful month:
? Refill bird feeders regularly to provide a vital food source for our feathered friends. As natural food becomes scarce, birds rely on feeders for sustenance. Clean and replenish bird feeders with a variety of seeds, nuts, and suet to attract a diverse range of bird species. By supporting local bird populations, you contribute to the balance of your garden's ecosystem.
? Install insect hotels and create log piles to provide shelter for beneficial insects. These structures mimic natural habitats and offer a safe haven for insects like ladybugs, solitary bees, and lacewings. Place insect hotels in sunny, sheltered spots and arrange log piles in a quiet corner of your garden. These features not only support beneficial insects but also add an element of natural beauty to your outdoor space.
? Apply autumn lawn feed to strengthen and nourish your grass for the colder months. Choose a specialized autumn lawn fertilizer and follow the manufacturer's instructions for application. This feed will help your lawn recover from summer stress, promote root development, and enhance its ability to withstand winter weather conditions. Remember to rake up fallen leaves to prevent them from smothering the grass.
♻️ Add garden waste to your compost heap to create nutrient-rich compost for future use. Collect fallen leaves, spent plants, and garden trimmings and add them to your compost bin or heap. Ensure a good balance of brown and green materials, such as leaves and kitchen scraps, to facilitate decomposition. Regularly turn the compost to aerate it and speed up the breakdown process.
? Take time to enjoy the autumn beauty of your garden and make note of any areas that may benefit from improvements or new planting. Consider adding late-flowering perennials, such as asters and chrysanthemums, to extend the colour and interest in your garden. Plan ahead for spring by browsing catalogues and selecting bulbs for planting in the coming months.
By focusing on these tasks in October, you'll nurture a vibrant and resilient garden that continues to thrive even as the seasons change. Embrace the autumnal atmosphere, cherish the beauty of falling leaves, and savour the moments spent tending to your garden. ???
In October, as you tend to your garden, may the rhythm of the seasons bring you a sense of peace and connection with the natural world. Enjoy the beauty that unfolds and the rewards of your gardening endeavours. ???
