November 2024
Get to grips with the garden before the festive frenzy!
Before the festive season really gets a grip, and temperatures are still relatively mild, there are many gardening jobs that can be done during November.
Plant tulip bulbs - at least twice the bulb depth and in a sunny site with good drainage or added grit. It’s not too late to plant daffs and crocus either.
Plant bare root plants such as roses, fruit trees & hedging now. We’re in the process of potting up hundreds of bare root roses whilst they’re dormant. Economical, rewarding & ready to go as soon as the growing season starts.
Protect tender plants from frost…take action now so that you don’t get caught out!
Dahlia tubers can be lifted and stored over winter or plants given a really good mulch to protect them from the worst of the winter weather. Try a combination of both methods as an insurance policy!
Garlic can still be planted now directly into the ground in a sunny, well drained site.
Plant soft fruit bushes which will establish through winter.
Cut back autumn fruiting raspberries to the ground - mulch the area.
Prune apple & pear trees.
Raise pots and containers off the ground slightly to improve drainage. Remove any saucers/trays from underneath containers to prevent waterlogging.
Tie-in long shoots of climbers to prevent them being damaged in high winds.
For indoor scent & colour, pot up spring bulbs such as Narcissus paperwhite and prepared Hyacinths. Keep them in a cool, dark place until you see signs of growth, then move to a bright, cool place indoors. These will flower much earlier than those planted outside.
Prune roses to prevent wind rock.
Clean & oil garden tools for winter.
Keep bird feeders & supplies well stocked throughout winter. Most small garden birds can only store enough fat reserves for a few winter nights.
Now you’ve earnt that cuppa (or something stronger to ward off the winter chill), put your feet up & relax!