As summer transitions into autumn, the garden still offers a wealth of opportunities. Here are some important tasks to carry out in September:
? Once the tassels on your sweet corn have turned brown, it's time to check whether the cobs are ready to harvest. Gently peel back the husk and press a kernel with your thumbnail. If the juice is milky and the kernel is plump, the corn is ripe for picking.
? Leave marrows, squashes, pumpkins, and other winter squash varieties to ripen fully on the plant. To prevent soiling, place a wooden board or straw beneath each fruit as they grow.
? Plant autumn onion sets for a fresh supply of onions in the coming months. Choose a well-drained area and follow the recommended spacing for your chosen variety.
? Lift onions and shallots from the ground carefully and allow them to dry out in a well-ventilated area. This curing process improves their flavour and extends their storage life.
? September is an ideal time to prune fruit trees. Remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches, and shape the tree to encourage optimal growth and fruit production.
? Continue harvesting ripe fruits from your garden, such as apples, pears, and plums. Enjoy their delicious flavours and consider preserving or sharing the abundance with others.
? Harvest maincrop potatoes as the foliage begins to die back. Carefully dig them up, being cautious not to damage the tubers, and allow them to dry before storing.
? Sow winter greens like land cress, mustard spinach, corn salad, and hardy lettuce cultivars. These cold-hardy greens will provide you with fresh and nutritious greens throughout the cooler months.
Jobs to do
As summer gradually transitions into autumn, September brings a shift in gardening tasks. It's time to prepare your garden for the changing season and make the most of the bountiful harvest. Here are important tasks to focus on during this transitional month:
? Empty and tidy up the greenhouse to prepare it for the upcoming season. Clear out any spent plants, remove debris, and thoroughly clean the greenhouse to minimize the risk of pests and diseases. Consider disinfecting surfaces and equipment to maintain a healthy environment for your plants. Organize and store gardening tools and supplies for easy access in the months ahead.
? Rake, aerate and feed lawns to promote healthy growth. Remove fallen leaves and debris from the lawn using a lawn rake, allowing air and sunlight to reach the grass. Aerate the soil by creating small holes with a garden fork to improve drainage and nutrient absorption. Apply a suitable lawn fertilizer to provide essential nutrients that will support the grass throughout the autumn season. If your lawn has bare patches or shows signs of wear, consider overseeding with grass seed to encourage thick and lush growth.
♻️ Make your own compost heap with plant debris to create nutrient-rich compost for your garden. Gather plant debris, such as fallen leaves, spent flowers, and garden trimmings, and add them to a compost bin or heap. Mix the materials with occasional layers of kitchen waste, such as fruit and vegetable scraps, to create a balanced compost. Turn the compost regularly to ensure proper decomposition and maintain a good balance of moisture and air.
? Embrace the changing season and prepare for autumn planting. Consider adding autumn-flowering bulbs, such as crocuses and daffodils, to brighten up your garden. Start planning for the cooler months ahead, including selecting and ordering seeds for autumn and winter crops. Assess your garden layout and make any necessary adjustments to optimize your growing space.
By focusing on these tasks in September, you'll ensure a well-prepared garden that continues to thrive as the seasons change. Embrace the beauty of autumn and relish the joys of gardening as you prepare for the next chapter in your garden's journey. ???
Embrace the changing seasons and the delights they bring to your garden. As you tend to your plants, may the rewards be plentiful, and the joy of gardening continue to fill your heart. ???
