The National Trust has issued some advice for gardeners for the autumn to ensure they have the best flower beds in the neighbourhood come spring
While this practice might be considered a cornerstone of traditional DIY projects, gardening enthusiasts are not accustomed to collecting a section of carpet in order to better tend to their plants.
However, that’s precisely what the National Trust is recommending they do in readiness for autumn, to guarantee they achieve the finest flower beds come next spring.
The conservation charity’s most recent guidance warns that allowing soil to remain uncovered throughout winter will not be good for its health when spring arrives. A trust spokesperson explained: “Leaving beds empty with exposed soil over winter isn’t good for soil health. Mulch empty vegetable and flower beds to protect them.”
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Mulch refers to a dense, loose covering of material spread across bare earth in flower beds or planters. This protective layer serves to prevent weeds, boost moisture retention and enhance soil quality.
It can also tidy up the look of beds whilst shielding roots from winter frosts. Common mulching materials include garden compost, wood chips, manure and leaf mould. The trust suggests spreading your chosen mulch in a 2-3 inch deep layer, being careful to maintain gaps around plant stems.
However, if the patch is overrun with weeds, their recommendation is to skip the weeding process entirely and instead fetch a piece of woollen carpet or, failing that, some cardboard.
The spokesperson further clarified: “Alternatively, if they’re full of weeds, you could cover them with a layer of cardboard or woollen carpet and leave the weeds to break down, ready for planting in spring. If possible, avoid digging the soil as this disturbs the structure and soil organisms.”
The trust emphasised that autumn is an ideal time to make alterations to the garden so that owners can reap the benefits next year, reports the Express. The spokesperson continued: “It’s time to plant spring bulbs and many other plants, mulch your borders and prepare new ground for growing.
“Spring bulbs can be planted in pots or in your flower borders throughout autumn. Daffodils, hyacinths and crocuses are best planted before the end of September when the soil is still warm. October and November are good times to plant your tulips.
“Bulbs of tulips, crocuses and daffodils can be planted in pots or your flower borders. If you have a large area of grass try planting crocus bulbs in drifts for a vibrant colour show in early spring.
“If you’re planting in pots, use a peat-free compost and really pack your bulbs in for a great display – you can even layer them up for a succession of colour.”