Seasonal Gardens

 Latest Interiors says it’s time to prepare the garden for spring

It might be cold outside (baby), but November and December are the months for planning your spring garden. It’s time to brush away the winter cobwebs, pull on your wellies (and woolies), and get to work.

Tidying up
If you didn’t get around to it in October, then cleaning up and clearing out are your first priority. Clear away dead leaves and plants; look for, and remove, anything that is obviously dead, diseased or damaged, and trim back over-enthusiastic growth. Winter-proof everything that’s left: move tender plants to shelter, tie back and stake anything vulnerable to protect from winter storms. Most trees (with the exception of cherries, birch and walnut which prefer the end of summer) are best pruned over the winter months, although mature trees – unless there is good reason – are generally best left alone.

Planning
Any trees or shrubs you wish to move can safely be transplanted in the winter months. Once the decks are clear, it’s time to take stock. What did well over the summer, and how does the garden look now? Ideally, a garden should produce some colour all year round, so make a note of where yours did well and where it didn’t. Plan your spring planting accordingly; the new season’s seed and plant catalogues will be coming through the door very soon. And while you’re stomping around out there, how about adding a bird feeder to help our feathered friends through the winter months?If you’re planning big structural changes in the coming year such as a deck or new surface, greenhouse or office, pace out the dimensions and get a feel for the new space. It can pay to get professional advice for major works and landscaping early on: a trained eye might see possibilities for your outside space that you haven’t considered, and many have a waiting list by the time the spring season begins. Get at least three quotes before you commit yourself.

Planting
Many seeds can be started early indoors or under cover. Early fruit and vegetable crops, like winter red kale, turnips, garlic and rhubarb, don’t mind the colder months outdoors. Others, like broccoli, Brussels sprouts and onions can be started indoors or under cover and moved outside in January or February. Spring flowering bulbs can be planted from autumn through to winter. Tulips can be planted as late as December or January and still bloom late in spring. Now is also a good time to plant any perennials, and roses too, while the soil is still warm enough to encourage a little root growth. Again, if you’re stuck for ideas, a garden professional can help you to choose the right plants and crops to suit the soil and light in your garden, and help ensure you get the most from your outside space.