October is when we know that autumn is here. The leaves are turning and the weather is colder. Winter is not far off. Here are some jobs that can be done when gardening in October:
- Flower Gardening
Planting Spring Bulbs: October is the ideal time to plant spring-flowering bulbs like daffodils, tulips, crocuses, and hyacinths. Plant them at the correct depth in well-drained soil to ensure a vibrant display in spring.
Dividing Perennials: Lift and divide established perennials such as hostas, irises, and daylilies to rejuvenate them and encourage healthy growth next year. This also helps to propagate new plants for other areas of the garden.
Cutting Back and Tidying: Cut back dead or faded perennials and clear away fallen leaves from borders to keep your garden tidy and reduce the risk of pests and diseases overwintering. - Vegetable Gardening
Harvesting: Many late crops are ready to harvest in October, including carrots, leeks, pumpkins, and squashes. Be sure to lift root crops before the first frosts.
Sowing for Winter: Hardy vegetables like garlic, onions, and broad beans can be sown directly into the ground in October for a harvest next year. Plant winter-hardy lettuce varieties for a late crop.
Clearing and Preparing Beds: Once you’ve harvested your vegetables, clear away old plants and debris. Add compost or well-rotted manure to the soil to enrich it, ready for next year’s planting. - Fruit Gardening
Harvesting: Finish harvesting the last of your apples, pears, and autumn raspberries. Store apples and pears in a cool, dry place for winter use.
Pruning Fruit Trees: October is a good time to prune fruit trees, particularly apples and pears. Remove dead or diseased branches, and thin out crowded areas to improve airflow. - General Garden Maintenance
Lawn Care: Mow the lawn for the last time before winter, and apply an autumn lawn feed to encourage strong root growth. Rake up fallen leaves to prevent them from suffocating the grass.
Mulching: Apply a layer of mulch around plants to protect their roots from frost and to enrich the soil.
Gardening is always about thinking ahead. By focusing on these tasks in October, you’ll prepare your garden for the colder months while ensuring it is set up for success in the spring.