Jobs to do in the Garden in October
- clairecharrie
- 10 hours ago
- 2 min read
October is a month of crisp weather, first frosts, blue skies and beautiful autumnal colours. The leaves are so bright this autumn due to a combination of weather conditions that boosted sugar production in the trees. A warm and sunny summer created more sugars. Coupled with cool, crisp nights, these conditions allow the yellow and orange pigments to become more visible as the green breaks down.
Planting and dividing
Plant spring bulbs: This is a prime time for planting bulbs like tulips and daffodils.
Divide perennials: Split and replant established perennials like hostas and rudbeckias while the soil is still warm.
Plant hardy crops: Sow hardy crops like garlic, onions, and winter lettuce.
Take hardwood cuttings: Propagate new shrubs and plants by taking hardwood cuttings.
Maintenance and tidying
Prune: Lightly prune roses to prevent wind damage, and cut back herbaceous plants that have died back.
Protect tender plants: Move or cover tender plants to protect them from the first frosts. We have moved our Citrus plants into the community centre and will water lightly throughout the winter months.
Mulch borders: Apply a thick layer of mulch to flower beds to protect the soil and plants over winter.
Clean up: Tidy up the greenhouse and clean pots.
Harvest: Harvest any remaining fruit and vegetables, such as apples, pears, and pumpkins.
For wildlife
Create habitats: Build a log pile or leaf mould bin to provide shelter for wildlife.
Feed birds: Put out bird feeders to help birds through the winter months.
Lawn care
Rake leaves: Clear fallen leaves regularly to let light reach the grass and prevent fungal diseases.
Final mow: Give your lawn a final mow, raising the blade to avoid scalping.
Aerate: Aerate compacted areas with a garden fork to improve drainage.
Apply autumn feed: Use a low-nitrogen fertiliser to build winter strength.
Repair: Overseed thin patches or lay fresh turf on bare areas.
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Recipe of the Month
Potato Crust Quiche
This gluten free recipe can be easily adapted as vegetables can be swapped for whatever you have available
Ingredients:
700g potatoes peeled & cubed
1 leek sliced
I onion sliced
5 large eggs
3 tbls yoghurt
200g bacon strips
Salt/pepper
2 tbls olive oil or butter
Method:
Preheat oven to 180 C degrees
Boil potatoes til tender, mash with 1 tbls oil or butter
Fry bacon, onion and leek in 1 tbls oil or butter fro 5-10 mins
Line quiche dish with baking paper
Press potato mash into base & up the sides of dish.
Whisk eggs, yoghurt & seasoning, add bacon, leek, onion
Pour this mix into potato crust & bake for 20-25 minutes
Eat warm or allow to cool before slicing/serving
Enjoy!
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