Autumn - Autumn is our favourite season here at Down To Earth Gardening.

Autumn is our favourite season here at Down to Earth. Edinburgh and East Lothian positively glow in the autmunal colours and the landscapes look even more magical than normal

Autumn Gardening

Autumn is an ideal time to prepare your garden for the coming seasons while enjoying the changing colours and softer light. As the temperatures cool, focus on tasks that promote soil health, plant strength, and seasonal interest.

Planting and Dividing

Autumn is perfect for planting trees, shrubs, and hedges as the soil is still warm, encouraging strong root development before winter. It is also the best time to plant spring-flowering bulbs such as tulips, daffodils, and crocuses. Divide perennials that have become overcrowded to encourage vigorous growth and extend their lifespan.

Soil Preparation

Take advantage of fallen leaves by shredding and adding them to garden beds as mulch or compost to enrich the soil. Rake fallen leaves from lawns to prevent matting and fungal diseases. Consider conducting a soil test and add lime or fertiliser as necessary to correct nutrient imbalances.

Protecting Plants

Lift and store tender plants that cannot withstand frost, such as dahlias and cannas. Apply a layer of mulch around the base of susceptible plants to protect roots from temperature fluctuations. Check garden structures like greenhouses and cold frames to ensure they are secure for colder weather.

Wildlife-Friendly Practices

Leave seed heads and berries on perennials and shrubs as an important food source for birds and beneficial insects. Create habitat piles from pruned branches to provide shelter over winter. Avoid tidying too thoroughly; some leaf litter and dead plant material can offer valuable refuge for insects and small mammals.

General Maintenance

Clear out annuals that have finished flowering and add them to compost heaps if disease-free. Reduce watering as plants enter dormancy but remain vigilant for late-season pests and diseases. Autumn is also a suitable time to plan any new garden features or changes to implement during the quieter winter months.

By embracing these autumn gardening tasks, you will create a sustainable and wildlife-friendly garden that thrives throughout the year.

Putting it all into action

By following these expert tips, you can ensure your garden in Edinburgh, East Lothian and surrounding areas is ready start the hibernation process this Autumn. Whether you’re in Edinburgh, East Lothian, Haddington, Musselburgh, North Berwick, Dunbar, Portobello, Barnton, Cramond, Tranent, Longniddry, Gullane, Gifford, Aberlady, these steps will help you make the most of the new season.

Looking for professional help with your garden? Contact Down to Earth Gardening for expert gardening services tailored to your needs.