A Guide to Transitioning Your Garden from Summer to Winter

Many homeowners will neglect their gardens once the weather starts to turn, but you can embrace the change in seasons and create a beautiful and functional space even during the coldest period of the year. Keep reading to discover how to transition your garden from summer to winter.

Preparing Your Plants

First, you should take steps to protect your vulnerable plants. Frost can be a serious issue during the colder months and can cause significant damage to less-hardy plants, which is why you should consider moving these indoors or using a horticultural fleece for protection. Mulching around the base can also help insulate the roots to prevent damage.

You can also introduce plants that will thrive in colder weather and add visual appeal. Many beautiful options, including Viburnum x bodnantense or winter heathers, can add colour and life to your garden. Spring-flowering bulbs like daffodils and tulips can also provide a burst of colour later in the year.

Maintaining Your Garden Structure

You should also remove dead leaves and debris to prevent pests and diseases, cut back faded perennials, and tidy up your borders. Now is also a good time to clear out your shed and greenhouses, making space for storing delicate plants and garden furniture.

Scarify your lawn to remove thatch and aerate the soil, which will allow for better drainage during the wetter months. A final cut before the first frost at a higher level than normal will help prevent winter damage.

Enhancing Your Garden’s Ambience

Even in winter, your garden can be an inviting space. Define cosy seating areas with sheltered spots, perhaps near a wall or fence. You can then add rugs, cushions, and throws for warmth and comfort. Drape outdoor festoon lights overhead to create a magical atmosphere for evening gatherings.

You can also introduce winter scents by planting winter-flowering shrubs with fragrant blooms, such as Sarcococca confusa or Daphne odora. Potted herbs like rosemary and thyme near seating areas can also work well.

Preparing for Spring

You should also be thinking ahead to spring to make the most out of the improved weather. This could involve ordering seeds, bulbs, and plants; keep in mind that there could be supply chain issues, so ordering early is smart. You can also prepare your soil for the next growing season by adding compost or well-rotted manure. This will improve the soil structure and fertility. You can also continue to compost fallen leaves and garden waste throughout the winter to create nutrient-rich compost for spring.

This post should give you a few ideas for ways to make the most out of your garden during the winter months. There is still a lot that you can do with the space during the colder months to retain its beauty and functionality.