April Gardening Update

Autumn in the Garden

With the Equinox behind us, Autumn is in full swing. Leaves are changing colour across the city and countryside, and the garden is transitioning to cooler days.

Harvest & Preserve Keep harvesting tomatoes, courgettes, and other Summer crops to preserve for Winter. Freeze them whole, or turn them into soups and stocks to store for colder months.

Perennials & Propagation Perennials are still flowering strongly, but daily deadheading will keep blooms coming for longer. Now is a great time to pick up discounted perennials and get them in the ground so they can establish roots before the first frost. It’s also the perfect time to take runner cuttings from strawberry plants and pot them up for next Summer—an excellent way to ensure healthy plants each year.

Fruit Trees & Protection Most fruit trees have finished fruiting, and their leaves are beginning to fall. Now is the time for protective spraying with conqueror oil and copper sulphate to combat diseases like curly leaf before Spring. Be sure to clean up fallen leaves and fruit to prevent insects from overwintering in them.

Winter Crops & Care Winter vegetables will need watering as the weather remains unpredictable. Cabbage white butterflies are still around, and their caterpillars have been particularly active this year, so keep an eye on your brassicas. There is still time to plant brassica seedlings, spring onions, and quick-growing Asian greens such as Bok Choy.

Garden Preparation Now is the time to tidy up beds, replenish the soil, and collect seeds for next year. Label perennials to avoid disturbing them when planting in Spring. Bulbs should be organised now for planting by the end of April—garden centres have a great selection available if you haven’t already ordered online.

Safety & Indoor Plants Treat mossy patches on steps and paths now to prevent slips when frosty mornings arrive. Indoors, houseplants need less water but will appreciate one last round of fertiliser. Remove dead or ageing leaves to keep them healthy.

Enjoy the Season! Amy & Ray

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