Your Garden’s Autumn Reset: What to Do Now for a Better Spring
As September settles in and summer slips behind us, now is the moment to refresh your outdoor space and set the scene for the next growing season.
Why September matters
If you’re just back from a summer holiday and you’re already busy again it’s easy to end up neglecting the garden. Autumn prep gives your soil a chance to restore, your spring flowers a head start, and your outdoor furniture a fighting chance against damp, mildew and frost.
01 | Tidy doesn’t have to mean bare
Start by trimming tired summer growth and mulching borders. Cut back tired annuals and slim down overgrown shrubs, but don’t strip everything. Seed heads and dried grasses can add beautiful texture over winter, and birds love them too. Leave a few wild corners for hibernating pollinators and wildlife.
02 | Plant with intention
Spring-flowering bulbs such as tulips, daffodils and crocuses need time in cold soil to bloom beautifully later. Plan to put them in the ground by late October. For smaller gardens or balconies, layer bulbs in pots (‘lasagne planting’) for continuous colour from March to May.
03 | Soil and structure
After clearing beds, apply a layer of mulch or compost. This locks in nutrients, keeps weeds down and helps the soil recover through winter. September is also a good time to aerate lawns and reseed bald patches.
04 | Furniture and outdoor living zones
Before the rain sets in, clean garden furniture with a gentle solution and soft brush. Dry thoroughly before covering or storing. Reproof fabrics with a waterproofing spray and consider applying teak or wood oil to preserve natural timber finishes.
05 | Plan for winter projects
If you’ve been dreaming of raised beds, new fencing or even a garden studio now’s the time to start planning. Many landscapers have better availability and more flexible timelines between November and February.
If you’re going to be hectic this autumn and need a trusted gardener, designer or maintenance service to help, that’s what we’re here for. CiD clients - just contact your EA and we’ll handle the rest.