Jobs for the Month - November

The first frosts of the year will now begin to appear across the country and there are a few jobs throughout the month of November that will help prepare the way for next year.

 

What to Plant: 

  • Fruit trees
  • Tulip bulbs
  • Daffodil bulbs
  • Hyacinth bulbs
  • Crocus bulbs
  • Allium bulbs
  • Hellebores
  • Bare-root roses
  • Pansies
  • Violas
  • Other winter bedding plants

What to order: 

  • Hydrangea 
  • Amaryllis 
  • HT Roses
  • Currant plants
  • Bare-root fruit trees

Prepare perennials for winter 
November is an ideal time for the mulching of hardy perennial plants that may be affected by heavy frosts, (for example, Fuchsias and Agapanthus). A protective covering with organic material such as peat or straw will help prevent moisture loss and will stop the roots from freezing. You may also want to move some tender plants into a cool sheltered location to prevent damage over the winter. 

Time to plant those fruit trees/roses 
It is an ideal time for planting fruit along with other loose rooted plants. Larger fruit trees may need to be tied to a stake to prevent wind damage Always tie the tree to the stake low down so the tree can move in the wind, but the roots will be stable. 
 
Preventing accidents 
Wet autumn and cold winters can cause difficulties as paths and decking can freeze and create a slippery, dangerous surface. Sweep paths firmly and regularly with a stiff brush and prune back any branches which may be blocking sunshine and air circulation. You may also want to invest in temporary mats for surfaces and drainage for particularly bad surfaces. 

Tips: 

  • A great advantage of falling leaves in autumn is that they can make great eco-friendly compost and if you decide to have a compost heap/bin, then it should now be well and truly filled with these fallen leaves. 
  • Be sure not to plant roses in areas they previously grew in as the new plants may suffer from rose sickness because of this. 
  • Winter will be a hard time for wildlife. Fill the bird feeder and set out fresh water and you'll see plenty of visitors to your garden.  
  • When you’re putting your mowers and trimmers away for the Winter season, ensure they are drained, cleaned, and dry, as moisture could lead to rusting.