Gardening experts share essential autumn plant care and seasonal maintenance tips

As the seasons change, gardeners are advised to implement specific maintenance routines to ensure plant health and prepare for spring.

For indoor plants like potted lemon trees, experts recommend a thorough cleaning—including inspection, washing, and spraying with black soap—before bringing them inside to prevent pests like mealybugs and mites from infesting the home. Similarly, succulents require a significant reduction in watering during their winter dormancy to prevent root rot caused by excess moisture.

Outdoor garden care involves several key tasks. For dahlias, removing spent blooms and maintaining consistent moisture can extend flowering into late autumn. Peonies benefit from autumn pruning once leaves turn yellow and applying fertilizers rich in phosphorus and potassium rather than nitrogen. Lawn maintenance should conclude in late October or November, with grass kept at a minimum height of 3 cm.

For spring preparation, gardeners are encouraged to collect seeds from healthy annuals in September to create a free seed bank. When purchasing spring bulbs, it is vital to inspect them for firmness and avoid those with mold or soft spots. Experts also suggest being cautious with invasive species like grape hyacinth, which can spread aggressively into lawns.