Chillier weather has certainly set in, meaning your garden tasks will likely concern protecting and preparing your plants ahead of winter.
But beyond clearing fallen leaves, mulching borders, moving shrubs, and caring for tender plants, one expert has revealed a crucial job you may not have considered.
“One of the most important – and most overlooked – gardening jobs for November is checking the condition of your shed,” said Simply Plastics’ director, Andrew Haydon.
“You probably won’t be using it that much this time of year, but it’s exactly now that things like damp, mould, and frost have a chance to invade unnoticed,” he told GB News.
“Most people think they can just close the door and forget about it until spring; however, that is when things are likely to get ruined, and by January, your shed could be full of damp, mould, and musty smells.”
So, how do you adequately prepare your shed to avoid these common issues? Mr Haydon shared his tried-and-tested three-step method.
‘One of the most important gardening jobs for November is checking the condition of your shed’
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PAWinter-proof your windows
“The first job is to check the windows. Even small hairline cracks in the glass can allow cold air and rain to get in, which can quickly lead to condensation on the inside.
“If you have older glass panes or flimsy plastic which has started to bow, it’s worth replacing these now, ideally with acrylic sheets.
“They are a tougher and weather-resistant alternative, and they will not shatter during storms.”
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There are 3 factors to consider when it comes to your shed: windows, ventilation, and storage
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GETTYEnsure ventilation
“Next is ventilation, as during the coldest days, airflow is crucial.
“When a shed is completely sealed up, any trapped humidity from wet tools, damp ground, or sometimes just the humidity in the air, has nowhere to go. That’s when mould starts to thrive.
“A simple vent, or even just propping the shed door open on dry days, will help a lot.”
Sort your storage
“Storage matters too. Things stored in cardboard boxes are mould magnets, not to mention old rags or fabric seat cushions, which can start to smell awful, even after just a few damp weeks.
“Consider swapping cardboard for plastic storage tubs with lids, and throw in a few moisture absorbers like silica gel packs or baking soda to help keep moisture down.”
Looking for more gardening jobs to get stuck into the rest of the month? The Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) advises:
- clearing fallen leaves from ponds and lawns
- raising containers onto pot feet to prevent waterlogging
- planting tulip bulbs for a spring display next year