Gardening and plant care tips for autumn and winter

As autumn progresses, gardeners are advised to implement specific maintenance routines to protect plants and prepare for winter. Key recommendations include monitoring nighttime temperatures, as drops below 10-12 °C can damage sensitive species like dipladenia. For dahlias, essential October tasks include removing faded flowers, reducing watering to prevent tuber rot, labeling varieties, and choosing between mulching or lifting tubers based on local climate and soil drainage.

Soil health is a primary concern. Experts suggest avoiding the use of plastic sheeting on garden beds during winter, as it can create stagnant moisture and microclimates that favor pests like slugs and mold. Instead, organic mulch or permeable covers are preferred. For nutrient management, a homemade liquid fertilizer can be created by reacting crushed eggshells with vinegar to release calcium.

Seasonal planting and storage also play vital roles. Winter garlic should be planted in October or November when soil temperatures reach 8-9 °C to ensure root development before deep freezes. Additionally, root vegetables like carrots, celery, and beets can be preserved through winter if stored in cool, moist environments, such as sand-filled crates in a cellar. Proper harvesting techniques, such as selecting healthy produce and harvesting during dry weather, are critical for long-term storage success.