4 Things to do right now for an autumn-ready garden

Of all the seasons, the start to autumn is the least obvious. Apart from the leaves yellowing and falling from certain trees, it almost seems as if summer is still around. However, there are some maintenance tasks every garden owner needs to do right now to prep for what’s to come.

Take action in the garden by doing the following weekly:

1. Rake with purpose

Raking not only improves the aesthetic appeal of your garden, but it also prevents leaves from smothering the grass and inhibiting growth. Additionally, removing leaves helps to reduce the risk of mould and disease.

Essential tools for the job:

• A rake with flexible tines
• Garden refuse bags
• Garden gloves

2. Prune, trim back & transplant

Prune and trim shrubs, trees, annuals and perennials. Doing this will help prepare your plants for winter and encourage a successful spring.

Divide overcrowded perennial such as daylilies and ornamental grasses. Lift the plants from the ground, divide the root ball into smaller sections, and replant in well-prepared soil.

Essential tools for the job:

• Sharp pruning shears
• Garden spade
• Garden gloves

3. Add compost & mulch

Now is also a great time to add compost in your beds to add nutrients into the soil. And don’t throw away all the leaves you’ve gathered as they do a lot of good in your garden beds as organic material. Work them into the soil to enhance texture and create an ideal environment for plant roots to thrive.

It is also a good idea to add mulch over the soil surface for insulation.

Essential tools for the job:

• Garden fork
• Garden spade
• Compost
• Mulch

4. Cover delicate plants

If your garden beds contain tender plants or sensitive perennials, it’s important to shield them from frost and chilly temperatures.

Essential tools for the job:

• Frost blankets
• Mulch

5. Water less

During autumn, plants require less water. Gradually reduce watering frequency from weekly to bi-weekly or monthly intervals throughout autumn. Try watering by hand to adapt water needs for each area.

Essential tools for the job:

• Hose pipe
• Garden hose set

Good to know: Cleaning Warehouse stocks garden tools. Next time you are shopping for cleaning products swing by our Garden aisle and browse our selection.

Visit the green store that offers more.