The weather might be cooling down but it doesn’t mean your work in the garden is over – an expert has revealed five key jobs you can get started on before September’s end
As we come to the end of September an expert has urged gardeners not to skip out on these important jobs.
Even though the weather is cooling down and the leaves are beginning to fall, it doesn’t mean it’s time to hang up the gardening gloves. Autumn is actually the perfect time to catch up on maintenance and prep your garden for the following spring. It’s also a good opportunity to make sure your plants are set up for the harsh winter weather.
Paul Parker, gardening expert at plants and bulbs specialists J. Parker’s, reveals useful gardening tips for September to keep your garden healthy year-round.
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Divide herbaceous perennials
Paul explains that perennials like phlox, daylilies, and astrantia can become overcrowded after the summer period. He says: “September is a good time to lift and divide perennials to encourage fresh growth and give them a new lease of life.
“With the plants you have lifted, fill gaps in your borders or share them with friends. It is important to replant any divisions as soon as possible to prevent the roots from drying out and give them a good amount of water after replanting to help them establish in their new location.”
Lift and store tender bulbs
Paul advises: “Now is a good time to lift gladioli, begonias and other tender bulbs before temperatures drop. Brush off excess soil rather than washing them as the moisture can cause rot. Let them dry out completely before storing in a cool, frost-free place.”
Take cuttings from tender plants
According to Paul, tender plants such as salvias, pelargoniums and fuchsias will need protection in the colder months ahead. A great job for September is propagating any tender plants, taking cuttings to overwinter indoors. It is best to choose non-flowering shoots and make sure to remove lower leaves.”
He explains: “Taking these cuttings while it is still warm will help them to root quickly and they will be ready to be potted in spring, once the threat of frost has passed.”
Collect and store seeds
Paul says: “A great way to make the most of flowering plants like nigella, aquilegia and calendula, is to harvest mature seeds and save them for sowing next year.
“Dry out your seeds, making sure they are completely dry, before sealing them in labelled envelopes. When storing seeds, find a spot that is cool, dry, and out of reach of any rodents, so that they are in the best condition to be used again.”
Clean up borders and remove spent foliage
Paul advises: “Cutting back faded perennials, clearing fallen leaves, and tidying tired borders will not only keep your garden looking neat but also deters overwintering pests. However, we recommend leaving some seed heads in place to provide food for wildlife.”