Gardens across the UK are showing signs of distress, with leaves turning brown and plants wilting as extreme weather conditions take their toll. But there is still time to save them
British households have been given a crucial one-week alert with the ‘final opportunity’ to rescue their gardens ahead of autumn’s arrival. While it might appear and feel as though autumn has already begun, a horticultural specialist cautions that you have merely seven days to take action.
As foliage starts turning brown and vegetation begins to droop, numerous gardeners may believe autumn has come prematurely. However, specialists caution this represents a phenomenon called ‘false autumn’, a survival mechanism from trees and flora driven to their limits by this summer’s unprecedented heat.
The Met Office states that extreme weather can prompt plants to act as though the season has shifted, despite it still being officially summer.
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Yet with astronomical autumn commencing on September 22, time is running short to reverse the harm, reports the Manchester Evening News.
“False autumn isn’t a picturesque seasonal change. It’s a warning sign that gardens are in distress,” cautions Liam Cleary, gardening expert at Old Railway Line Garden Centre.
“Acting now could be the difference between losing plants this winter or seeing them thrive next spring. If you don’t help your plants recover before colder weather sets in, the stress of false autumn could leave them too weak to survive the winter,” he continued.
“Weeks of high temperatures left soil baked and compacted, meaning even recent rainfall hasn’t been able to penetrate deeply enough to sustain roots. Without urgent action, gardens risk long-term decline.”
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The specialist’s three-stage garden recovery strategy
Cleary suggests three straightforward steps that garden enthusiasts should implement straight away. By following these three simple instructions, gardeners can ensure their outdoor spaces remain vibrant and well-maintained as the seasons shift from summer to autumn and even winter.
Mulch trick
Spread bark or wood chips around the base of plants to retain moisture and rejuvenate the soil’s sponge-like texture.
Thorough watering
Utilise a watering can or drip hose for slow, precise watering so that moisture penetrates the roots beneath the compacted surface.
Nutrient enhancement
Administer a liquid fertiliser to provide plants with the energy they require to recuperate and gain strength before winter.