East Dean and Friston
November Garden Tasks
East Dean and Friston Gardening club
Sowing & Planting
Flowers & Perennials
• Lift and store dahlias, cannas, gladioli after frosts; label by colour/variety.
• Cut back finished perennials; leave some seed heads (echinacea, rudbeckia) for wildlife.
• Plant spring bulbs (last call for tulips); aim for groups of 10–15 for impact.
• Mulch borders with compost/leafmould (~5 cm) to protect crowns and improve soil.
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Roses, Shrubs & Trees
• Plant bare-root trees/roses/shrubs in well-prepared holes; water in.
• Prune tall rose stems by a third to reduce wind rock (hard prune in late winter).
• Check tree stakes & ties; loosen if tight, replace damaged.
Lawn
• Final light mow if growth continues; raise the mower height.
• Scarify/rake leaves off grass to prevent yellowing and moss.
• Edge lawns neatly to tidy borders.
Fruit & Veg
• Plant bare-root fruit (apples/pears/raspberries/blackcurrants).
• Protect brassicas from pigeons (netting) and check for caterpillars after mild spells.
• Mulch asparagus/rhubarb crowns; lift final root crops (parsnip, carrot, beet).
• Sow broad beans and peas under cloche in mild areas.
Greenhouse/Polytunnel
• Bring in tender plants (pelargoniums, fuchsias).
• Insulate with bubble wrap; check heaters and thermostats.
• Water sparingly; ventilate on mild, dry days to prevent botrytis.
Containers
• Switch to winter displays: violas, pansies, heuchera,
skimmia, small conifers.
• Raise pots on feet; ensure drainage is clear.
• Top up with fresh compost + slow-release
fertiliser for winter containers.
Houseplants
• Reduce watering; avoid cold draughts and cold windowsills at night.
• Increase humidity (pebble trays / grouping). Remove dead leaves to deter pests.
Wildlife & Ponds
• Net ponds for falling leaves; remove them before they sink.
• Clean bird feeders, offer high-energy food and fresh water; set up a hedgehog house if you have quiet corners.
• Leave a messy patch (pile of twigs/leaves) for overwintering insects.
Planning & Admin
• Review successes; note gaps for spring bulbs/perennials.
• Order bare-root hedging, seed catalogues, and manure/compost for winter mulching.
• Schedule PATIOS/STRUCTURES: book contractors before spring rush.
Paths, Fences & Tools
• Pressure-wash/slip-proof paths and steps; treat algae/moss.
• Clean, sharpen, and oil tools; drain and store hoses.
• Check fences & sheds; treat timber on dry days.
Leisure
• Take time to enjoy crisp autumn days.
• Sit back and appreciate the fruits of your labour.
• Watch wildlife preparing for winter
from a cosy seat in the garden.