I’m a garden expert, here are the 10 jobs you need to do in November

THE weather has definitely taken a turn for the worse as temperatures are below freezing and snow has already fallen in parts of the country.

And according to the experts, now is the time to prepare your garden for the harsh winter ahead.

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Jason Mennie, Managing Director at Haon Garden Rooms, says: “Winter can be a challenging season for gardeners, but with some preparation it is possible to protect your plants from pests seeking refuge in the cold.

“By combining preventative measures such as clearing away garden waste, using natural insect repellents and encouraging beneficial wildlife, gardeners can ensure their garden survives the winter months and is ready to bloom when spring arrives. ”

Here, Jason gives his top 10 tips to help your outdoor space survive the season.

1. CLEANING

Although we associate summer with pests, they can still cause serious damage in winter. So it is crucial that you protect your garden from intruders.

Jason said: “Pests, such as aphids, slugs and wintering insects, can hide in fallen leaves, dead plants and garden waste, so it is important to rake up leaves, remove and compost dead plants, or throw away any plant material that can harbor pests. or illness.”

2. COZY BEDS

JUST like everyone else at this time of year, your garden needs to stay warm.

The expert said: “Mulch insulates the soil and helps regulate temperature and moisture, but it also acts as a barrier to pests.

“Once you apply a thick layer of organic mulch – such as straw, leaves or wood chips – around your plants, this will deter rodents and insects from burrowing into the soil, while keeping the roots warm and protected.”

3. UPHOLSTERY

IT is important to provide your garden with as much protection as possible during the cold season.

Jason said: “Floating row covers or garden fleece can protect plants from cold weather and pests.

“You should drape lightweight fabric over plants and anchor the edges with rocks or soil; This ensures that pests such as cabbage worms, aphids and rodents cannot reach your plants, while still allowing air and light to pass through.”

4. EXCHANGE IT

Removing weeds is no one’s favorite activity, no matter what time of year. And you may think the cold weather will simply kill them, but some hardy varieties can survive the winter – and cause problems for your precious garden.

Jason advised: “Get weeds out of your garden before winter arrives, and make sure they don’t create hiding places or breeding grounds for insects and rodents.”

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5. INSECT BALL

NOT all insects are the enemy, the expert said. Some insects are even useful because they keep the real pests at bay.

He added: “Plant a range of plants that attract beneficial insects such as ladybirds, spiders and predatory beetles, which help control pest populations.

“You can also create habitats such as insect hotels, with stacked wood and hollow stems, to protect these predators during the cold months.”

6. SEAL THE HOLES

It is essential to make your garden as difficult as possible for the larger winter pests, which like to come in and nibble on your plants.

Jason said: “Rodents, like mice and voles, seek shelter in garden sheds, greenhouses and under mulch, so seal any gaps or gaps in fences, sheds and other structures.

“Consider placing hardware cloth around the base of plant beds or garden structures to prevent rodents from burrowing in them.”

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7. NATURAL SOLUTION

IF all else fails, there are other solutions you can use to protect your outdoor space – and some can be found throughout your home.

The expert said: “Some pests may not be deterred by physical barriers alone, through the use of organic insecticides such as neem oil or diatomaceous earth.

“Or try natural insect repellents such as garlic spray, peppermint oil or hot pepper solutions, as they can deter insects and rodents without harming beneficial insects.”

8. DEPARTURE

If you have trees or shrubs in your garden, these are a particular favorite for pests. It is crucial that you protect these or you risk losing them by the time summer arrives.

Jason says: “Rodents, such as voles and rabbits, can chew the bark of young trees and shrubs, so make sure you cover them with a protective cover or mesh and fence the shrubs with fencing to prevent pests from gnawing on them. ”

9. ENTIRE HOUSE

IF you want to continue growing during the winter months, you will need a greenhouse or cold frame.

But these can attract hungry pests that seek shelter from the cold during the cold winter months.

Jason advised: “You should ensure the structure is properly sealed and adequately ventilated by using sticky traps or pheromone traps to catch indoor pests and checking regularly for signs of infestation.”

10. SIT EARLY

EVEN if you’ve done everything you can to protect your garden from insects, it’s always a good idea to keep an eye on the area during the colder months.

He said: “Inspect your garden occasionally throughout the winter for signs of pests, such as gnawed leaves or tracks in the snow, as they can cause damage if left unchecked. Early detection allows you to take action before pests multiply.”

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