Autumn is now definitely upon us, so it is time to take a look at what we can do in the garden. The growing season is coming to a rapid close and the leaves are falling a plenty, so it is time for tidying up and making some decisions on how to prepare for next Spring. But the main job for the autumn is to put the garden to bed.

Tasks for Early Autumn

• Now is the time to bring in the more delicate plants that will not survive the winter months.
• Evergreens and conifers should be moved while the soil is still warm to prevent root damage.
• Spring bulbs and bedding plants can be planted now.

Garden Tasks for Mid Autumn

• Tidy up your perennials, removing all the dead stems, but leave the seeds for birds to eat.
• Plant some deciduous trees, shrubs and deciduous climbers
• Autumn is a good time to lay a new lawn as the soil is moist but not too wet
• Secure your garden plants and furniture – prepare for winter storms. on windy nights

Garden Jobs for Late Autumn

• Late autumn is a good time to plant shrubs, roses and hedglings that are sold with bare roots (these are the cheapest ones to buy, and usually hardy enough to survive a while without soil).
• Clear up leaf fall and then mulch. A good leaf blower and mulcher pays dividends here.
• Plant your tulips and hyacinths
• Move deciduous trees and shrubs once they have lost their leaves
• Take hardwood cuttings from shrubs and roses