Prepare for Changing Seasons
As the vibrant hues of summer begin to transition into the cooler shades of autumn, November is the perfect time to prepare your garden for the changing seasons.
Bramhall based Creative Gardens & Driveways understand the importance of ensuring that your outdoor space remains inviting all year round.
David Hadley, MD of Creative Gardens & Driveways has shared his advice on what homeowners should be doing now to keep their gardens looking great all year round:
“A typical garden landscaping project can cost upwards of £30,000 and is something that most homeowners only invest in once. But you will continue to maintain and update your garden continually. With this is mind, here are our recommendations for easing the transition of your garden and prepare for the colder months ahead.”
1. Tidy Up and Clear Debris
Before the leaves start to fall, take some time to clear away and surplus summer debris. You may want to leave dead grasses and seed heads from plants for wildlife and winter structure.
However, if you prefer a tidy look, you can prune selectively and remove any unattractive dead material. To keep a fresh tidy look, be vigilant when it comes to fallen leaves alighting on light coloured paving or lawns.
Swift removal will prevent paving being stained or grass damaged by the tannins in the leaves, oak leaves can be particularly bad for this. You should also remove any detached leaves that accumulate in the branches or on top of evergreen hedges like yew.
A layer of rotting leaves here can stifle ventilation, encourage fungal growth and lead to premature dieback.
2. Don’t be too overzealous
You can leave any fall around the base of trees and shrubs, particularly at the back of a border. These will form a weed suppressing layer, eventually rotting down into the soil, improving topsoil, soil structure and the overall health of your plants.
A tidy garden not only looks more appealing but also prevents pests and diseases from taking hold. That way your garden will continue to remain healthy and clutter free in the months ahead.
3. Prune and Trim with discretion
It can be tempting to try to refresh all your existing plants by pruning dead or overgrown branches. However, this should only be done at the appropriate time of year for the individual plant concerned. For example, buddleia benefits from a later autumn prune to stop wind damage in the winter, however, cutting back lavender at this time will make it more susceptible to damage from early frosts. If you are confused, you can ask an expert for help.
4. Plant for Autumn/Winter Colour
Embrace the colours of autumn by introducing plants that display reds, oranges, and deep purples. Chrysanthemums, asters, and ornamental grasses are excellent choices that add a burst of colour to your garden as the weather cools down. By planting and preparing in summer, your garden will remain in full bloom for you to enjoy in the autumn.
4. Prepare for Frost
As temperatures drop, take precautions to protect delicate plants from frost. Bring potted plants indoors or place them in a sheltered area. Cover tender plants with burlap or frost cloth to shield them from chilly nights.
5. Design Elements
Autumn is the time to plan and install design features such as fencing, pergolas, or outdoor seating areas. This allows for proper integration with the overall garden layout and ensures a seamless transition into summer.
Creative Gardens & Driveways are dedicated to helping clients create gardens that thrive throughout each season. “We spend many hours in initial consultations with customers, discussing their projects and goals,” David added. “From conversations about desired features and the practicalities of maintaining completed projects, to working through intricate designs and planting choices, we take every step necessary to bring clients’ dream garden to life.”
As a proud member of the “British Association of Landscape Industries” (BALI), Creative Gardens & Driveways are accredited experts in the field and with two decades of building expertise, their passionate team of designers, landscapers and support staff is dedicated to delivering exceptional projects.
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Contact us today to discuss how we can help you design the perfect garden to suit your personality and lifestyle.
