Gardening Tips – September

September is here, and it’s an exciting time for gardeners in Dorset. The weather may be cooling down soon, but there’s still plenty to do and plant in your garden. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, we’ve got some easy-to-follow gardening tips for you this month.

1. Plant Autumn Bulbs for Spring Beauty

Now is the perfect time to think ahead to spring. Planting spring-flowering bulbs like daffodils, tulips, and crocuses in September will give your garden a burst of colour when winter fades away.

2. Tend to Your Lawn

Regular mowing and feeding will keep it healthy. If you’re dealing with bare patches, now’s the time to reseed and repair.

3. Harvest Your Homegrown Goodies

If you’ve been nurturing a vegetable or herb garden, get ready to harvest the rewards. September is the time to pick tomatoes, peppers, beans, and herbs. Enjoy the taste of your hard work, and consider preserving some for the winter months ahead.

4. Plant Cool-Season Vegetables

If you’re new to gardening, start with easy-to-grow cool-season veggies like spinach, lettuce, kale, and peas. They thrive in the cooler autumn temperatures and can often be harvested well into winter.

5. Keep an Eye on Pests and Diseases

As the seasons change, so do the challenges in your garden. Be on the lookout for common pests and diseases like aphids and mildew. Regularly inspect your plants, and if you spot any issues, address them promptly with organic or chemical treatments.

6. Prune and Tidy Up

Give your garden a tidy appearance by pruning shrubs, removing dead flowers, and cutting back overgrown branches. This not only improves the aesthetics but also helps prevent disease and encourages new growth.

7. Plant Autumn-Flowering Perennials

Add a pop of colour to your garden with autumn-flowering perennials like asters and sedums. These hardy plants will brighten up your garden well into the fall and attract pollinators.

8. Prepare for Frost

When the temperature begins to turn, start bringing tender plants indoors or into a greenhouse as the temperatures drop. Cover delicate plants with fleece to protect them from the first frost.

9. Plan Ahead for Spring

Now is a great time to think about next year’s garden. Consider what worked well this year and what you’d like to change. Sketch out your ideas, research new plants, and maybe even start a compost pile to enrich your soil.

Remember, gardening is a journey, and every season offers new opportunities to learn and grow. Don’t be afraid to ask for help or advice from our knowledgeable staff here at Thorngrove. We’re here to support gardeners of all levels, so don’t hesitate to stop by and see us.

Happy gardening, and enjoy the beauty of your September garden!