As the weather gets undeniably chillier and wetter over the coming weeks, November gardening tends to involve protecting and preparing your plants ahead of winter.
But according to gardening guru Chris Taylor, how you tend to your garden now can also determine how it looks throughout spring.
Speaking exclusively to GB News, the expert shared everything gardening enthusiasts can do this month for a beautiful outdoor space in November and beyond.
Mr Taylor told green-thumbed Britons: “November is a turning point in the gardening calendar, where a month of winding down growth and gearing up for the colder months ahead.
“After more than 20 years tending British gardens, I’ve learned that what you do now can make all the difference come spring.”
Stressing that preparation and protection are key, he advised gardeners: “Start by clearing away fallen leaves from lawns and borders as they can harbour pests and diseases if left to rot.
“Clean and sharpen tools before storing them for winter, and insulate outdoor taps and water butts against frost.”
Fallen leaves can harbour pests and diseases if left to rot, the expert warned
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Plant parents should also take special care of “tender” varieties like dahlias, cannas, and pelargoniums, lifting them, drying them off, and keeping them in cool, frost-free spots.
“I always mulch borders with compost or bark at this time of year as it keeps roots warm and feeds the soil over winter,” Mr Taylor revealed.
Looking towards spring, the expert recommended planting bare-root trees, hedges, and roses while the soil is still “workable”.
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‘Late-planted tulips are less prone to disease, so don’t worry if you’re only getting them in now’
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GETTYHe added: “Late-planted tulips are less prone to disease, so don’t worry if you’re only getting them in now.
“If you’ve got shrubs that need moving, do it while they’re dormant – they’ll settle in nicely before spring.”
As for the biggest mistake to avoid making this month, the expert urged Britons not to overwater pots and containers.
“We know winter wet is far more damaging than cold,” he warned.
Instead, they should be raised on pot feet to improve drainage, while terracotta should be protected from frost.
While clearing leaves is key, the gardening guru revealed it is possible to go overboard.
He said: “Many people make the mistake of over-tidying; I always leave some seed heads and leaf piles in sheltered corners to give wildlife a place to rest.”
For the same reason, the Royal Horticultural Society also advises gardening fans to clear up fallen leaves from ponds, explaining: “Ponds are a lovely addition to any garden and can provide a rich habitat for a range of wildlife.
“Occasional cleaning and regular maintenance are required to ensure water is healthy for fish and other wildlife.”
Mr Taylor concluded: “With a bit of preparation now, your garden will be in the best possible shape to face winter and ready to thrive again when the first signs of spring appear.”
October gardening tasks all ticked off? Check here.