Did you know autumn is one of the very best times for planting and transplanting? The soil is still warm and moist, which helps plants root quickly. Think of autumn as a “second spring” in the garden! By planting spring bulbs now, you’ll set yourself up for a colourful, early display next season.
And don’t worry – the gardening season is far from over. October is full of rewarding jobs, both in the garden and on your balcony. Here are 15 ideas to keep you busy:
Planting & Growing
- Spring bulbs – Stock up now while supplies last! Daffodils, tulips, crocuses, grape hyacinths, and hyacinths all need a cold period before they burst into bloom. Plant them in borders, lawns, pots, or containers.
- Late-flowering perennials – The soil is still perfect for planting asters, sedums, Japanese anemones, monkshood, sneezeweed, Rudbeckia, and echinacea.
- Ornamental grasses – Their seed heads catch the autumn light beautifully and provide winter structure. Try blue fescue or Japanese forest grass, even in pots.
- Evergreens – Add year-round colour with ivy, honeysuckle, conifers, periwinkle, and yew.
Colour & Atmosphere
- Seasonal containers – Fill pots with pansies, heather, cyclamen, skimmia, gaultheria, and autumn chrysanthemums. Add ornamental cabbages, pumpkins, and gourds for a festive touch. Great fun with children during the half-term!
- Natural decorations – Collect colourful leaves, chestnuts, and acorns to brighten up a garden or balcony table.
Tidying & Maintenance
- Lift tender bulbs & tubers – Dig up dahlias, begonias, and gladioli after the first frost. Store them cool, dry, and frost-free until spring.
- Support climbers – Tie in clematis, climbing roses, and honeysuckle to protect long shoots from wind and snow damage.
- Lawn care – Reseed bare patches, keep mowing, and spread lime to reduce moss. Rake up fallen leaves and add them to the compost or use as mulch. Piles of leaves also make cosy winter shelters for hedgehogs and frogs!
- Pond care – Scoop out dead leaves, cover with a net, and leave cleared material by the edge overnight so insects and creatures can escape.
- Clear gutters – Prevent blockages and leaks before the heavy rains arrive.
- Protect potted plants – Remove saucers and trays to avoid waterlogging and root rot.
Wildlife & Pets
- Birdhouses & feeders – Clean old nest boxes with warm water and soap, and stock up on feeders and bird food to welcome garden birds. They’ll repay you by helping to control pests like slugs and caterpillars.
- World Animal Day – October 4th – Treat your pets with toys, beds, or shelters from our garden centre in St Albans. And don’t forget bird seed and supplies for your feathered visitors!
Final thought: Autumn is not the end of gardening – it’s the start of next year’s success. With these 15 tips, your garden or balcony can stay lively, colourful, and full of activity well into winter. Visit our garden centre in st albans to find everything you need!
