As November draws to a close and frost blankets many parts of the country, green-fingered enthusiasts have one final opportunity to prepare their gardens for the harsh winter months ahead. According to gardening expert Simon Perry, tackling these essential tasks now will ensure your outdoor space remains healthy, tidy and full of life throughout the coldest season.
Essential Garden Protection Tasks
With autumn leaves having made their final display and numerous plants entering winter dormancy, Perry emphasises the importance of acting before December's arrival. Mulching borders and flowerbeds stands as a critical first step in winter garden protection.
"A good mulch acts like a winter blanket for your soil," Perry explains. "It keeps roots warm, locks in moisture and keeps weeds at bay through winter." He recommends spreading a 5 to 8cm layer of organic matter around perennials and shrubs, using materials such as compost, bark or leafmould while keeping it clear of the plant crown to prevent rot.
Planting for Spring Beauty
November represents the last realistic chance to plant bulbs for a vibrant spring display, as delaying until December when ground freezing becomes more likely will significantly complicate the task. Perry advises following a simple planting rule: "Plant the bulb two to three times as deep as it is tall, placing the bulb with the pointed, or shoot, end facing upwards."
For those uncertain about which bulbs to choose, Perry suggests crocuses or snowdrops for early colour, followed by daffodils and tulips to signal spring's arrival. Anemones, fritillaria and alliums will provide visual interest from spring right through to summer.
Supporting Wildlife and Structures
With natural food sources diminishing, feeding garden birds becomes increasingly important during winter months. Perry recommends hanging seed feeders, suet balls or peanut cages while ensuring a regular supply of clean water remains available.
November also presents an ideal opportunity to check fences and sheds before winter storms intensify. "Winter storms can quickly turn small maintenance issues into major repairs," Perry warns. "A quick check of garden structures and minor repairs now can save you hassle and expense later."
He suggests walking around your garden to identify loose fence panels, wobbly posts and gaps in roof felt. Additionally, any dry day before temperatures regularly drop below 5°C provides a final chance to add protective colour to fences or sheds using paint or wood preservative.
Creating Winter Interest and Maintenance
To maintain visual appeal during darker months when most plants have died back, Perry recommends incorporating evergreen shrubs and winter-flowering pots. Robust plants such as hellebores, heather, skimmia or winter pansies work particularly well in containers to keep gardens looking alive.
Patio maintenance represents another crucial November task. "A quick clean of your decking or patio helps prevent algae and dirt from building up over winter," says Perry. Even if cleaned at summer's end, he advises sweeping away fallen leaves and debris before performing a simple wash-down to prevent slippery surfaces.
For paved patios or timber decking, use a mild detergent or specialist cleaner with a stiff brush or low-pressure washer. Composite decking typically requires only a gentle wash with mild detergent and a rinse. November also serves as an excellent time to clean barbecues or pizza ovens before winter storage.
Planning for Future Seasons
Beyond immediate tasks, Perry highlights November as the perfect month for making plans for the coming year. Whether sketching ideas for new borders or vegetable beds, or ordering seeds and bulbs, planning helps keep the gardening spirit alive through winter's darkest days.
By completing these seven essential gardening tasks before December's arrival, you'll ensure your outdoor space remains protected, vibrant and ready to burst into life when spring eventually returns.
