September is a transitional month in the UK garden, as summer begins to give way to autumn. There are several tasks you can undertake to keep your garden looking its best and prepare for the colder months ahead. Here are some jobs to consider for your UK garden in September:
Planting and Transplanting: September is a great time to plant or transplant perennials, shrubs, and trees. The soil is still warm, which encourages root growth before winter.
Lawn Care: Continue mowing your lawn as needed, but consider raising the height of the mower blade slightly. You can also aerate and scarify the lawn to improve soil aeration and remove thatch.
Harvesting: Many fruits and vegetables are ready for harvest in September, including apples, pears, plums, and late-season vegetables like pumpkins and winter squash.
Bulb Planting: Prepare for spring by planting spring-flowering bulbs such as daffodils, tulips, and crocuses. Plant them at the appropriate depth for your specific bulbs.
Dividing Perennials: If your perennials have become overcrowded or are no longer flowering well, September is a good time to divide and replant them.
Weeding: Keep up with weeding to prevent weeds from going to seed and spreading further. Removing weeds now will make your spring gardening tasks easier.
Pruning: Prune summer-flowering shrubs that have finished blooming. Avoid heavy pruning on plants that bloom in spring, as you might remove next year’s flower buds.
Deadheading: Remove faded flowers from plants to encourage more blooms and prevent the formation of seeds.
Greenhouse Maintenance: Clean and tidy your greenhouse to prevent pests and diseases from overwintering.
Bulb Care: If you have tender bulbs like dahlias and gladioli, dig them up before the first frost, dry them, and store them in a cool, dry place for winter.
Composting: Regularly turn your compost heap to accelerate decomposition. Fallen leaves can also be added to the compost pile.
Prepare for Autumn Planting: Start planning your autumn and winter planting, including winter bedding plants, cool-season vegetables, and ornamental grasses.
Protect from Frost: Keep an eye on weather forecasts for potential frost and have fleece or cloths ready to cover tender planCollect Seeds: Gather seeds from your garden for future planting. Store them in cool, dry conditions.
Garden Cleanup: As plants finish their growing season, trim back dead foliage and tidy up your garden beds. This helps prevent disease and keeps your garden looking neat.
Remember that the tasks you prioritize might vary depending on your specific climate, the types of plants you have, and your gardening goals. Taking care of these tasks in September will help ensure a healthy and vibrant garden through the autumn and into the next growing season.
