November's Gardening Tips

At the time of writing we still haven't had a frost but inevitably one can't be far off.  Any plants that need lifting should be dealt with as soon as possible now before its too late.  Any plant from outdoors that is going to be over-wintered in the greenhouse or conservatory will need to be cleaned up by trimming any dead foliage etc and obviously putting in a pot if it has been lifted from the garden.  Keep moist over winter without getting too wet but remember to give plenty of air - as much as weather conditions will allow.

Once there has been a frost, leaves will start falling faster and many subjects in the herbaceous border will have their top growth killed back.  Any such plants can then be safely cut down to just above ground level and the border generally tidied.  It is important to pay attention to clearing up the Autumn debris because, left uncleared, it will harbour pests and diseases over winter thus increasing problems next year.

Don't delay picking any left-over marrows and store them for Winter use - they should keep well.  Also any apples left on the trees should be harvested without further delay and stored.  In the vegetable patch, sowings can now be made of broad bean "Aquadulce" or "The Sutton" and pea "Feltham First".  These will over-winter and should produce crops a couple of weeks earlier than spring sown seed,  If you are growing late season sprouts, trim any yellow leaves off the plants and firm them in the ground thoroughly - they should not be able to rock about in the Winter winds.

Gladioli should be lifted now.  Cut the old stem off just above the corm and ensure they are clean and thoroughly dry before storing them in paper bags (NOT plastic).

Rockeries pay dividends for attention at this time of the year.  Fleshy leaved alpines will look after themselves but plants bearing soft furry leaves will benefit from Winter protection.  Try to afford some cover by using fleece or support a piece of glass (not plastic) over them.  Also spread extra alpine grit for extra drainage during the wetter weather.

Now is also the time of year to check fences etc for stability and any necessary repairs can be effected before too many gales cause more damage.