It has soon come around that those cold and much darker nights are upon us. Autumn is just around the corner meaning so is winter. However, our gardens are certainly not ready for those bitter temperatures that kill off our wonderful plants. Making our gardens look like they have been neglected for years.
There are many ways you can make sure that your garden does not look like it has been abandoned. The last thing we want to see is all of our hard-earned work be washed away by the cold. Here are just a few things that you can do to prepare your garden for the winter months.
Get Rid Of The Garden Debris
During the summer season and autumn season. There are going to be plenty of branches and leaves that have fallen from the trees. It will either be from birds or it is just down to the fact that those trees are dying. All of the old supports, netting and any broken pots need to be cleared before winter comes. If you are one of those people that loves planting fruits and vegetables then you will want to put them in the compost bin as well.
There are going to be plenty of fallen leaves in autumn. So, the best thing to do is wait until they have all fallen off before you start raking them up. A rake can be good for this but you might want to use a brush. Especially if those leaves are damp and are to be picked up with a rake. If you have flower beds, then leave the fallen leaves that have already fallen into them. The reason for this is because they are going to naturally rot away to give those flower beds nutrients.
Clean Those Garden Concrete Slabs
Concrete slabs can be difficult throughout the year. No matter whether or not you are in summer or winter. Sometimes it can be a job for just a simple jet wash. However, if you have let it build over the year then the growth is going to be difficult to get off. Not to mention the fact that it could have potentially stained the concrete as well. In all fairness, it looks awful when it looks like this and is dangerous for anyone that is unstable on their feet. Try to do this at least four times a year to keep on top of it. If you do let them get out of hand then you might need doff cleaning to get those stone concrete slabs of yours clean.
Clean Your Garden Pots
Unused pots always need to be cleaned. If there are plants in there that will not be suitable for the colder temperatures then make sure to get rid of them. Checking your pots is a great way to prepare you for autumn/ winter. It will also be a good indicator of what else you will need such as new pots and fresh soil. There are a few things that you need to look out for so make sure you do that so your garden pots are fully prepared for the colder temperatures.
Time To Cut Down Those Overgrown Branches
Summer has been the perfect time for all of your flowers, bushes and trees to flourish. They have received the maximum amount of sunlight that they can get in the year. However, they might have overgrown which means that it is time to trim your bushes. You will want your trees and brushes to have the perfect shape throughout the year. The last thing that you want is for it to be looking untidy for the colder months.
This is something that you will do when all of the leaves begin to fall off. The reason for this is because it is easier to spot those overgrown branches when they are naked. Not to mention that it is much easier to tidy up once they have been chopped.
Sharpen Those Tools One Last Time
The best way to make sure that your garden tools last throughout the year is by keeping them well maintained. Now, we do not mean you have to maintain them every time after they have been used. If you are very passionate about gardening, it is something that you do once a week. Then you will want to make sure your tools are in good condition at least once a month.
Once you have got your garden fully prepared for the winter months, this is when you maintain them. There are a few things that you need to do as well. Firstly, make sure that you sharpen them and wipe any blades down. Oil up any wooden handles and make sure they are clean as well. Make sure that they are in the best condition you can get them. Now, once you have done all that, you will want to make sure that the blades are dry. If everything is dry then make sure that you store them in a dry and sheltered place so that they are ready for spring/ summer.
To Conclude
Preparing your garden for the winter months is just as important as for summer. However, there are few things that you need to prepare differently. One thing that you should always remember, make sure that you keep on top of your garden throughout the year to make sure that. That way, you will keep it in the best condition possible. Not only will you be preparing for summer but you might also have some outdoor landscaping ideas ready for summer.