Whitchurch and Llandaff Living Issue 68

Autumn pruning
gardens
As leaves turn vibrant hues and temperatures drop, it's the ideal time
to trim back overgrown branches and shrubs.
Pruning not only enhances the garden's aesthetics but also promotes
healthier growth in the spring. Removing dead or diseased branches
and shaping plants can prevent winter damage and encourage robust
regrowth.
Timing is key; late autumn, when plants enter dormancy, is perfect
for this essential garden maintenance.
Planting bulbs
Planting bulbs in the garden during
autumn is strategic and rewarding.
As the temperature cools, it's
the perfect time to nestle tulips,
daffodils, and crocuses into the soil.
These hardy bulbs establish roots
during the colder months, ensuring
a burst of colourful blooms in the
spring.
Remember to choose a welldraining
location and bury them
at the recommended depth for
optimal results. Come spring, your
garden will be awash in vibrant,
cheerful blossoms, welcoming the
warmer days ahead.
Planting trees and
shrubs
Planting trees and shrubs in the
garden during autumn offers
several advantages. The cooler
temperatures and increased
moisture create ideal conditions
for root development, ensuring
stronger and healthier plants in the
long run.
Autumn planting also minimises
stress on plants, giving them
a head start for the following
growing season.
Prepare your
garden pond
Start by removing debris like
fallen leaves and dead plants,
as decaying organic matter can
release harmful gasses. Consider
using a pond net or skimmer to
make this task easier. Trim and
prune any overhanging branches
to minimise leaf and debris
accumulation.
Next, invest in a pond de-icer or
aerator to maintain a hole in the
ice, ensuring oxygen exchange for
fish and other aquatic life. If you
have fish, reduce feeding as their
metabolism slows down in cold
temperatures. Finally, clean and
store your pump and filter indoors
to prevent freezing and damage.
Proper winter preparation will help
your garden pond thrive when
spring arrives.
Create leaf mould
Leaf mould is a valuable and eco-friendly
resource for gardeners. Collect fallen
leaves in the autumn when they're at
their peak. Choose a dry, well-ventilated
spot for the process.
Start by creating a leaf pile or using a
large plastic bag with some holes for
aeration. Shredding or chopping the
leaves can speed up decomposition.
Moisten the leaves and then cover
the pile with a tarp to keep them from
blowing away. Over the course of 6-12
months, microbial activity will break
down the leaves, transforming them into
a nutrient-rich humus that's excellent for
improving soil structure and moisture.
Plant evergreens
Planting evergreens in your
garden during autumn offers
numerous benefits. As the leaves
of deciduous trees fall, evergreens
provide year-round colour and
structure, lending visual interest
to your landscape. Autumn is an
ideal time to plant them, as the
soil is still warm, encouraging
root establishment before
winter. Evergreens also provide
valuable shelter for wildlife, aiding
biodiversity in your garden.
In cooler months, their dense
foliage can act as a windbreak,
reducing heat loss and protecting
more delicate plants. They also
contribute to air purification,
offering an invigorating and
calming fragrance to the garden.
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