Autumn gardening: seasonal tips for plant care and maintenance

As autumn approaches, gardening experts and organizations offer guidance on seasonal maintenance, plant health, and garden organization.

In France, ADEME warns against using thuja or cypress trimmings as mulch for ornamental flowerbeds. Such resinous waste can acidify the soil, cause nitrogen deficiency, and create impermeable layers that suffocate roots. To prevent insect intrusions like green shield bugs, homeowners are advised to inspect window frames and building crevices where insects seek shelter from the cold.

For vegetable gardeners, autumn remains a productive season. Hardy crops such as radishes, Japanese turnips, spinach, and kale can be sown to provide harvests through winter. Experts suggest using compost or well-rotted manure to replenish soil nutrients.

General seasonal advice includes: • Maintaining a garden diary or digital plant list to track species and care requirements. • Pruning roses to one-third of their height to prevent wind-rock. • Sowing hardy annuals like poppies and sweet peas. • Utilizing ornamental grasses in large containers to enhance home entrances. • Booking professional tree surgeons early for major pruning tasks. • Capturing autumn rainwater for future use.