Clear Fallen Leaves Before They Smother the Lawn

Autumn's golden carpet is a joy, but left too long on grass it blocks light and air, encouraging moss and disease. Rake little and often, especially after windy nights. A lawnmower with a collector box makes short work of large lawns, whilst a leaf blower is useful on paths and decking. Don't let leaves clog ponds or gutters – they can cause flooding and harm wildlife. Leaf mould is the reward: store damp leaves in bin bags with a few holes, or in a wire cage, and leave for a year or two. Oak, beech and hornbeam take longer; sycamore and lime break down quickly. Use the crumbly result as a low-fertility mulch for woodland plants, or mix with compost for seed sowing.

• Rake daily or every few days rather than letting a thick layer build up.
• Keep leaves out of drains, and away from the base of young trees.
• Add thin layers to compost bins, alternating with grass clippings.

Mulch Beds and Borders to Insulate Soil

After clearing leaves, apply a generous layer of well-rotted organic matter – garden compost, manure, or bark chips – about 5–7cm deep. This insulates soil against frost heave, suppresses winter weeds, and feeds worms. Don't mulch dry soil; water first if needed. Keep mulch away from stems, especially woody plants, to prevent rot. For vegetable beds, spread compost and let worms pull it down – the no-dig approach works brilliantly. Cedar raised beds are naturally rot-resistant, so they last for years; top up with compost each autumn. Mulch around overwintering garlic, broad beans, and perennial herbs. A layer of grit around alpines and silver-leaved plants keeps their crowns dry.

Tidy Greenhouse Glass for Maximum Winter Light

Low winter sun is precious. Dirty glass can cut light by up to 30%, slowing growth and encouraging mould. Clean inside and out with warm soapy water, adding a splash of white vinegar for algae. Use a squeegee for streak-free panes. Rinse well, especially on aluminium frames. Check for broken panes – replace or tape them before storms. Insulate with bubble wrap: double layer on the north side, single on the south, leaving gaps for ventilation on mild days. Clean gutters and downpipes so rain doesn't overflow onto paths. Horticultural glass cleaner is fine, but soap and water work well. Remove any shading paint. Also scrub pots and trays before overwintering plants, and wipe down cedar staging to prevent damp.

Protect Overwintering Plants and Pots

Move tender perennials, citrus, bay, and olives into the greenhouse or conservatory before the first frost. Group pots together for warmth and shelter from wind. Raise pots on feet or bricks to stop waterlogging and frost cracking. Terracotta can crack – wrap in bubble wrap or hessian. For plants staying outside, apply a thick mulch, then wrap with fleece or hessian. Don't prune tender plants now – wounds invite dieback. Water sparingly; soggy roots rot faster than dry ones. Check stored tubers – dahlias, cannas – in a dry, frost-free place, and dust off any mould. Cedar cold frames are ideal for hardening off winter lettuce, parsley, and coriander. A simple cloche made from cedar offcuts will protect a few salad leaves for Christmas.

Cedar Woodcraft and Outdoor Living Prep

Your cedar furniture, raised beds, and planters are naturally durable, but a little care goes a long way. Clean with a soft brush and soapy water. If greyed, a light sanding and a coat of cedar oil or a clear wood preserver restores colour. Avoid pressure washing, which raises the grain and opens joints. Check joints and tighten screws. Store cushions, parasols, and hammocks dry – damp fabric invites mildew. Cedar contains natural oils that repel insects and resist rot, so no chemical treatment is needed. For outdoor living, drain hoses, insulate outdoor taps, clean the barbecue, and store it away. Sweep decking and check for slippery algae. Empty and scrub bird baths, then refill regularly.

Final Checks Before the First Frosts

Autumn is a season of gentle transition. Once leaves are cleared, beds mulched, glass sparkling, and plants tucked up, you can enjoy the garden from indoors. Turn compost, clean tools, oil handles, sharpen blades. Leave water butts full – they provide useful winter watering and habitat for frogs. Check stakes and ties on young trees. Feed birds with high-fat food, and keep feeders clean. Winter wildlife needs shelter – leave some seedheads, make a log pile, and avoid cutting back all perennials until spring. Then, when the first frost arrives, you'll know you've done your best. Pour a cup of tea, look out at your tidy plot, and plan next year's planting. Your garden will thank you with a strong start in spring.