We may have enjoyed a pretty decent September, but of course colder weather is inevitably on its way in the weeks and months ahead, potentially eventually bringing with it wind and rain as well as dropping temperatures.
Such conditions can really take it out of your shrubs, trees and garden structures, for example your trellises. But the good news is that there’s plenty you can do to reduce or eliminate the chances of damage.
Safeguard your garden and plants against the effects of winter:
- Structures
Before the cold weather sets in, have a good check of all your garden structures such as fences, posts, roofs and any wooden panels. And if you’re replacing fencing, consider using a wind-permeable product to prevent gusting and shaking.
- Drainage
If you notice your garden has any drainage issues, deal with them immediately, since young trees or those with shallow roots are more likely to have their roots come loose in the wind if drainage is poor.
- Windbreaks
If your site is particularly windy or cold, windbreaks (for example in the form of hedges) are often a good idea.
- Containers
If you keep your containers in a sheltered, dry area, positioned close to each other, this will help protect them. Another idea is to envelope roots in bubble wrap or straw. Or you can bury them in the ground, with the rim just visible.
And, while we’re talking about wrapping, you can also protect all plants from the winter chill by wrapping them in horticultural fleece.
- Mulching
This is another great idea for minimising soil erosion and compaction which can often result from heavy downpours. Mulching also insulates roots against the cold.
- Feeding
Try not to apply nitrogen-rich fertilisers too late in the year, as this can encourage sappy growth.
- Covering soil and plants
If your soil is exposed, especially around your vegetable patch, nutrients can leach. But if you apply green manure in September, you minimise the problem.
Equally, it’s a good idea to plant strategically. Your garden, for example will have warm and cold locations, such as by a south-facing wall or on the north side of your house. Plants which flower early, such as camelias and magnolias, should go where they’re not exposed to morning sunshine, since if frozen buds thaw too quickly they can become black and drop off.
You can also consider covering plants with tarpaulins, blankets or similar to keep frost at bay. Make sure these coves reach to the ground and secure them tightly.
Finally, if you have a cold frame or greenhouse, this provides excellent shelter for young hardy plants. On days when the weather is a little warmer, opening up to the air stops fungal conditions and overheating.
Garden design in Surrey and beyond from AS Landscapes
At AS Landscapes, we cover Surrey and Hampshire, Ascot and Windsor with our bespoke garden and landscape design service. And we’ll be with you from start to finish as you create your perfect garden, whatever that means for you and whatever its size.
Our extensive line-up of garden services includes:
- Fencing
- Turfing and artificial grass
- Patio, paving and decking
- Pergolas
- Outdoor seating areas
- Planting designs and schemes
- Full landscape design service
There’s still time this year to revamp your garden. Whether you want all or just a part of your garden transformed, get in touch. We’ll be happy to chat as well about what you can do to be sure your garden and all the plants in it can withstand the coming winter.