Category: Garden Care

  • What to do with fallen leaves

    Fallen leaves can cover a garden quickly in autumn. They do not all need to be removed, but moving them from the right places keeps paths safe and gives lawns and small plants enough light.

    Clear paths and paving

    Wet leaves can become slippery, so paths, steps and frequently used paved areas are worth clearing regularly. Leaves can then be moved elsewhere in the garden rather than thrown away.

    Do not leave a thick layer on the lawn

    A heavy covering of leaves blocks light and air from the grass. Rake or collect them, particularly after large falls. A few scattered leaves are less of a problem.

    Use leaves in borders

    In less formal borders, a modest layer of leaves can break down naturally and provide shelter for insects and other small creatures. Avoid burying small evergreen plants under a thick, wet mat.

    Make leaf mould

    Collected leaves can be stored separately to decompose. A simple wire enclosure or ventilated bags can be used. Over time they break down into leaf mould, a useful material for improving soil structure and mulching.

    Some leaves take longer

    Thick, leathery leaves decompose more slowly than softer ones. Shredding them with a mower or garden shredder can speed the process.

    Autumn leaves are not simply waste. Used in the right place, they become useful material for the garden itself.

  • Preparing the garden for winter

    Autumn is a useful time to prepare the garden for colder and wetter weather. Not every plant needs cutting back and not every corner needs to be tidy, but a few practical jobs can prevent problems during winter.

    Clear what needs clearing

    Remove diseased plant material and fallen fruit that is beginning to rot. Healthy leaves can often be composted or used as leaf mould. Seed heads and sturdy stems can be left where they provide winter structure or shelter for wildlife.

    Protect vulnerable pots

    Containers are more exposed to frost than plants growing in open ground. Move tender plants to a protected place where possible. Check that outdoor pots can drain freely so that they do not remain waterlogged.

    Plant while the soil is workable

    Autumn can be a good time for planting many hardy trees and shrubs because the soil is still relatively warm and natural rainfall helps roots establish. Avoid planting when the ground is frozen or saturated.

    Look after tools

    Clean soil from spades, forks and hand tools before storing them. Dry metal parts and check wooden handles. Cutting tools can be cleaned and sharpened ready for the next season.

    Winter preparation is mainly about protecting vulnerable plants and leaving the garden in good working order. There is no need to remove every sign of the season.

  • Watering the garden in dry weather

    Long dry periods can put established gardens under pressure. Water is especially important for new plants, containers and vegetables, but the way you water matters as much as the amount.

    Water thoroughly

    A light sprinkling only wets the surface. For plants in the ground, slower and more thorough watering encourages moisture to reach deeper into the soil. This is generally more useful than frequent small amounts.

    Pay attention to new planting

    Recently planted trees, shrubs and perennials have smaller root systems and cannot yet draw water from a large area. Check them regularly during their first growing seasons.

    Containers need more attention

    Pots can dry quickly in warm or windy weather. Large containers hold moisture longer than small ones, but all should have drainage holes. Check the compost rather than watering automatically if conditions have changed.

    Water at a sensible time

    Early morning is a convenient time because temperatures are usually lower and plants have water available for the day. If necessary, evening watering is also useful. Direct the water towards the soil rather than routinely wetting foliage.

    Reduce evaporation

    A layer of organic mulch can help the soil retain moisture and can also reduce weed growth. Apply it when the soil is already moist rather than covering very dry ground and expecting it to solve the problem.

    During dry weather, concentrate on the plants that need help most. Established plants in suitable soil often cope better than newly planted areas and containers.

  • Peat-free compost in the garden

    Peat has traditionally been used in many bags of multipurpose compost because it holds water well and provides a consistent growing medium. Increasing concern about peatland loss has led to a much wider choice of peat-free alternatives.

    Why avoid peat?

    Peatlands develop very slowly and store large amounts of carbon. Removing peat damages these habitats and releases stored carbon. For gardeners, choosing peat-free compost is a straightforward way to reduce demand.

    What is peat-free compost made from?

    Products vary. They may contain composted bark, wood fibre, coir, green compost or mixtures of several materials. Because the ingredients differ, peat-free composts do not all behave in exactly the same way.

    Check moisture carefully

    Some peat-free mixes can look dry on the surface while remaining moist lower down, while others may dry more quickly than traditional peat compost. Check the compost with a finger rather than watering only by appearance.

    Use the right compost for the job

    Multipurpose peat-free compost is suitable for many containers and general planting jobs. Seeds and young plants may benefit from a finer seed compost. Acid-loving plants need an appropriate ericaceous product.

    Expect products to improve

    Peat-free compost has changed considerably as manufacturers have developed new mixtures. If one product does not work well in your garden, it can be worth trying another rather than returning automatically to peat.

    Good growing still depends on water, nutrients, drainage and the needs of the plant. Peat-free compost simply provides a different starting material.

  • A simple guide to garden compost

    Making compost is one of the simplest ways to reuse garden and kitchen waste. You do not need complicated equipment. A basic compost bin or a well-kept heap is enough for most gardens.

    What can go on the compost heap?

    Grass clippings, leaves, small amounts of soft pruning material, vegetable peelings, coffee grounds and spent plants can all be composted. Mix wetter green material with drier material such as fallen leaves, small pieces of cardboard and woody stems.

    Avoid one large layer

    A thick layer of grass clippings can become wet and compacted. Mix it with drier material instead. Cutting coarse material into smaller pieces also helps it break down more quickly.

    Air and moisture

    A compost heap should be damp rather than soaking wet. If it becomes very dry, add a little water. Turning the heap occasionally introduces air and mixes material that is decomposing at different speeds.

    When is compost ready?

    Finished garden compost is dark, crumbly and has an earthy smell. Some small pieces of woody material may remain and can simply go back onto the new heap.

    Use mature compost as a soil improver around established plants or when preparing beds. It is an inexpensive way to return useful organic matter to the garden.