Autumn gardening: Soil preparation and wildlife protection

September is a critical period for garden preparation to ensure success in the following spring. Gardening expert Guy Barter suggests utilizing the warm, moist soil to sow green manure crops. These plants cover bare soil, improve soil structure with their roots, and prevent nutrient leaching from winter precipitation. Specific tasks recommended for this period include sowing green manure, planting in bare flower beds, cleaning the base of young trees, and preparing cuttings from healthy plants.

In addition to soil health, autumn garden maintenance should account for local wildlife. To support hedgehogs, which are protected species, gardeners are advised to leave piles of leaves and branches as natural shelters. If clearing debris, it is important to move materials carefully to avoid harming animals. Creating small, quiet piles of organic matter under bushes can provide essential protection for hedgehogs as they prepare for hibernation.