September marks the transition from summer to autumn, with cooler days and the first hints of seasonal change. It’s a time to harvest, tidy, and prepare the garden for the months ahead.
General maintenance involves continuing to water pots and late-flowering plants as needed, especially during dry spells. Begin clearing away faded annuals and cutting back perennials that are past their best. Remove fallen leaves from lawns and paths to prevent them from becoming slippery or smothering grass. Check garden structures, like sheds and fences, for any needed repairs before winter.
In ornamental gardening, plant spring-flowering bulbs such as daffodils, crocuses, and hyacinths. Divide overcrowded clumps of perennials like hostas and daylilies to rejuvenate them. Continue deadheading late-flowering plants to prolong their blooms. Prune climbing and rambling roses once they have finished flowering, and tidy hedges before growth slows. Lift and store tender bulbs, such as dahlias and gladioli, once the foliage starts to yellow.
For fruit and vegetable gardening, harvest late-season crops, including pumpkins, squash, sweetcorn, and apples. Dig up remaining potatoes and onions, and store them in a cool, dry place. Sow green manure in empty beds to improve soil structure and fertility over winter. Start planting overwintering vegetables like garlic, onions, and broad beans. Prune fruit trees like plums and cherries after harvesting to avoid silver leaf disease.
Lawn care in September focuses on repairing and preparing for cooler months. Rake out moss and thatch, aerate compacted areas, and apply a top dressing of compost or sand. Reseed bare patches and feed the lawn with an autumn fertilizer high in potassium to strengthen grass for winter.
Wildlife and sustainability tasks include leaving seed heads on some plants to provide food for birds and shelter for insects. Clean out birdhouses and feeders, and ensure fresh water is available. Add compost heaps or leaf piles for hedgehogs and other small creatures to overwinter. Plant autumn-flowering species like cyclamen and heather to provide nectar for pollinators.
September is a month of change, with the opportunity to enjoy the last of summer’s bounty while preparing the garden for the colder months ahead.
