As winter approaches, there are several steps that you will need to take to ensure that your garden remains at its best. As temperatures drop, gardening will become a less comfortable experience, so be sure to finish off any garden maintenance before the frost hits. Keeping your garden tidy will not only make it look more attractive during winter but will also provide a healthier environment for your plants.
Start by removing any dead leaves that have collected in your garden. Throw out any dead plants and weeds to reduce the risk of problems such as plant disease. Use dead leaves to create nutrient-rich compost that will be ready to use for your plants in the New Year.
Begin planting your bulbs ready for spring. The best time to carry out any bulb planting tasks is between September – December, after the temperatures have cooled a little but before the frost hits. Plant your bulbs as soon as possible after obtaining them and select a location that is suitable for them. Consider growing them in a greenhouse or indoors to provide them with extra protection.
Remove any dead grass or moss that has collected in your garden over the summer. Mow your lawns and use lawn feed to keep your lawns healthy over the winter. If you have any wooden garden furniture on your lawn or patio, then this will need to be moved indoors or covered up during winter to prevent it from becoming damaged from frost or damp during the winter.
Add extra items such as bird houses and bird feeders to your garden during winter. This will increase wildlife activity in your garden and help to provide wildlife with extra food during winter. Avoid trimming hedges or bushes so that they provide extra shelter and berries for birds during the cooler months.
Add extra heating or lighting to your conservatory or greenhouse during winter. This will provide extra light and warmth not just for yourself but also any plants that you are planning to grow during the winter season. Add smoke alarms and thermometers to enhance the safety of your greenhouse or conservatory and monitor temperature control.
If you have a garden pond, then keep it covered during winter. Use netting or another suitable pond cover to prevent it from freezing over. Keeping your pond covered will protect any fish and help to retain heat.