I’m a gardening expert and fall is such an important time. Here are four chores to do

A gardening expert has revealed three crucial tasks homeowners need to do now to ensure their gardens look their best come spring.

Summer may be behind us, but that doesn’t mean it’s time to hang up your gardening gloves for the year.

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Jamie Shipley gardening expert and director Hedgerows Directsaid there are still plenty of jobs to do in the garden.

He said: “Autumn is the perfect time to take a closer look at your outdoor space and start tidying up any areas that have become a bit unruly.

“It is also important to take preventative measures to protect yourself garden when it storms.”

1. Prune deciduous trees and shrubs

The garden professional revealed that October is the perfect time for pruning as the weather is not too cold and the plants are less likely to suffer damage.

The purpose of pruning deciduous shrubs, such as hydrangeas, is to prevent them from growing enormously and overtaking the garden, or stealing light and nutrients from other plants.

Shrubs may only need minor pruning in October to prevent any new growth in the summer.

2. Water early flowering shrubs

Jamie said: “It may seem silly to water shrubs at a time of year when rainfall is plentiful, but early flowering shrubs benefit from an extra boost to look their best in spring.

“Azaleas, camellias and rhododendrons all need water when the weather is dry in October.”

Plant flowers and bulbs

Jamie revealed that in October the soil is warm and moist enough for plants to establish a root system.

Plants such as dogwood, firethorn, skimmia and viburnum are some examples of plants that, if you plant them now, will bring beautiful color to your garden.

Jamie says: “Spring flowering bulbs can also be planted in October, including daffodils, crocus, hyacinths and tulips.

“For the most part, hardy bulbs only need a sunny spot with good drainage and are easy to grow and care for.

“Start by digging a hole wide and deep enough to accommodate your chosen bulbs. A general rule of thumb is to plant bulbs two to three times as deep and space them a hand’s distance apart.”

Gardeners should also ensure that the pointed tip of the bulb points upward.

In addition to flower bulbs, now is also a good time to plant seeds, such as aquilegia, cornflowers, California poppies and sweet peas can now also be sown.

Jamie recommended planting three seeds in a 9cm pot and making sure you add good quality compost to the soil.

Water the plants well and place them in a cold frame or greenhouse before planting them outside next Be able to.

Protect your garden

The gardening expert said: “Unfortunately we are more susceptible to wet and windy conditions in the autumn.

“There are a few preventive measures you can take to protect your garden under these conditions.”

Jamie recommended reinforcing tree ties and posts, clearing away dead leaves and debris, sowing grass seed and applying fertilizer.

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