November brings cooler weather and the approach of winter, making it a time to prepare the garden for the cold months ahead while finishing up the last tasks of the growing season.
General maintenance involves cleaning up fallen leaves from lawns, paths, and beds to prevent damage to grass and reduce the risk of disease. Cut back any remaining perennials that have died back, leaving some for winter interest or wildlife. Clean and store garden tools and equipment, and protect vulnerable plants with mulch or fleece. If not already done, insulate outdoor taps to prevent freezing during the colder months.
In ornamental gardening, plant bare-root trees, roses, and shrubs while the soil is still workable. Continue planting spring-flowering bulbs such as crocuses, daffodils, and hyacinths. Prune any dead, damaged, or diseased growth on trees and shrubs, but avoid heavy pruning of dormant plants until later in the winter. Lift and store tender plants like dahlias and cannas to protect them from frost.
For fruit and vegetable gardening, harvest any remaining root crops like carrots, beets, and parsnips before the ground freezes. Clear out old vegetable plants from beds, adding them to the compost heap. Sow garlic and broad beans for early spring crops. Clean up fruit trees by removing any fallen fruit or leaves to prevent fungal diseases over winter. Protect any tender fruit bushes from frost by covering them with fleece or straw.
Lawn care in November involves reducing mowing frequency, but continue to mow the lawn if the grass is still growing. If the lawn is still in need of care, aerate compacted areas and apply a final feed of autumn fertilizer to prepare it for winter. Clear up fallen leaves from the lawn regularly to prevent moss buildup and to allow the grass to breathe.
Wildlife and sustainability tasks include providing food and water for birds, as natural resources become scarcer in the cold. Continue feeding garden birds with high-energy foods like suet and sunflower seeds, and leave some seed heads on plants for food. Create shelters for overwintering insects by leaving piles of leaves, twigs, or logs in quiet corners. Prepare for winter wildlife by adding mulch around plant bases or providing shelter for small mammals.
November is a time for garden maintenance and preparation, ensuring your garden is well-equipped to survive the winter months and emerge healthy and ready for spring.
