East Dean and Friston
October Garden Tasks
East Dean and Friston Gardening club
Sowing & Planting
Plant spring bulbs
• Sow broad beans for early crops next year
• Sow hardy annuals if weather is mild
• Plant bare-root trees and shrubs
• Plant garlic and autumn onion sets
• Divide and replant perennials while soil is workable
• Continue sowing green manure on bare soil
Pruning & Cutting Back
• Prune climbing roses once flowering finishes
• Prune back summer-fruiting raspberries if not done
• Cut down faded perennials (or leave some for winter structure/wildlife)
• Remove dead, diseased, or damaged wood from shrubs and trees
• Lift and divide congested perennials (e.g. irises)
Harvesting
Watering & Feeding
• Water newly planted trees, shrubs, and bulbs if dry
• Reduce watering of houseplants
• Stop feeding most plants; let them rest for winter
Greenhouse
Houseplants
• Reduce watering further as growth slows
• Keep plants away from cold draughts and radiators
• Check for pests as plants adjust to indoor life
• Clean leaves of dust
*Harvest apples, pears, quinces, medlars
• Gather remaining squash, pumpkins, and courgettes before frost
• Pick any late beans, tomatoes, or salad crops
• Collect seeds from flowers and vegetables
• Lift maincrop carrots and beetroot for storage
• Bring tender plants under cover before frost
• Clean greenhouse glass to maximise winter light
• Ventilate occasionally on mild days
• Check heaters are working for colder nights
• Sow winter salads or herbs under cover
Lawn Care
General Maintenance
• Rake and collect fallen leaves to make leaf mould
• Net ponds to keep out leaves
• Clean and store garden furniture and tools
• Check ties and supports on young trees
• Empty and clean water butts if necessary
• Keep borders weed-free
• Plan winter protection for tender plants
And Finally…….
• Keep mowing if grass is still growing, but at a higher setting
• Rake fallen leaves off lawns regularly
• Apply autumn lawn feed if not yet done
• Aerate compacted lawns if conditions allow
• Lay new turf early in the month if needed
• Wrap up warm, enjoy crisp autumn air, and admire autumn colours. A warm drink and a tidy garden are perfect companions!
