5 YEAR GUARANTEE 
November is the perfect time to begin planting winter crops that will keep your garden productive throughout the colder months. Hardy vegetables such as broad beans, garlic, and onions can be sown now, offering a delicious promise for the spring harvest. If you have a greenhouse, make the most of it by planting salad leaves, spinach, and winter lettuce. These crops can provide fresh produce even during the chilliest times of the year.
When sowing winter crops, pay attention to the spacing and depth recommendations for each type of seed. This ensures they have adequate room to grow and develop strong roots. If you’re using pots or trays in your greenhouse, make sure they are clean and free from pests. Position them to receive as much sunlight as possible, and consider using cloches or fleece for added protection during particularly cold snaps.
Winter crops benefit greatly from the protection a greenhouse provides, allowing you to extend the growing season. Ensure your greenhouse is in good condition, with intact glazing and no drafts. Ventilation is also crucial; even in winter, plants need a flow of fresh air to reduce humidity and prevent fungal diseases.
Watering is another key factor. Though the colder months generally mean less frequent watering, it’s important not to let the soil dry out completely. Water your plants early in the day to allow excess moisture to evaporate before nightfall, reducing the risk of rot and mildew. Mulching can also help maintain soil moisture levels and protect plant roots from frost.
Use a soil thermometer to monitor the temperature of your greenhouse soil. Certain crops may require a minimum temperature to germinate, and you can adjust heating or insulation as needed. In addition to crops mentioned earlier, consider adding herbs like parsley and coriander, which can thrive in cooler temperatures and add flavour to your winter dishes.
Companion planting is another strategy to consider. Pairing compatible plants can enhance growth and deter pests. For example, planting garlic near broad beans can help repel aphids.
Finally, label each pot or tray with the sowing date and type of crop to keep track of your planting schedule and ensure you give each plant the care it needs to thrive during the winter months.
Getting the Soil Ready for Winter
To prepare your garden soil for winter, start by removing any weeds or leftover plants from the beds. This prevents pests and diseases from overwintering in your garden. Collect and compost any fallen leaves, which will break down over time and provide valuable nutrients for future planting seasons.
Next, focus on improving soil structure and fertility. Use a garden fork or spade to loosen the soil, which enhances aeration and drainage. This process also makes it easier for roots to penetrate the soil come spring. Incorporate well-rotted compost or organic matter to enrich the soil. This not only provides essential nutrients but also helps maintain moisture levels and improve soil texture.
Conducting a soil test is a prudent step. It allows you to identify any nutrient deficiencies or pH imbalances. Based on the results, you can add specific amendments to correct these issues. For instance, if your soil is too acidic, applying lime can help balance the pH. Conversely, if the soil is too alkaline, sulphur can be added to lower the pH.
Consider adding a layer of mulch to your garden beds. Mulch acts as a protective blanket, helping to regulate soil temperature and retain moisture. It also suppresses weed growth, making it easier to manage your garden when spring arrives. Organic mulches, such as straw, leaf mould, or wood chips, gradually break down and further enrich the soil.
Don’t forget about your greenhouse soil. Just as with outdoor beds, clear away any plant debris and weeds. Refresh the soil in pots and trays by adding new compost or topsoil. This ensures your winter crops have a nutrient-rich environment to thrive in. Using a soil thermometer can help you monitor the temperature, ensuring it’s suitable for germination and growth.
Finally, consider the benefits of cover crops, such as clover or winter rye. These can be sown in empty garden beds to prevent soil erosion and improve soil health. Cover crops help fix nitrogen in the soil and can be turned in as green manure before spring planting, adding valuable organic matter to the soil.
Trimming and Pruning
November is an ideal month to concentrate on trimming and pruning to enhance the health and structure of your garden. Begin with roses, which greatly benefit from a winter prune. Cut back the stems to about half their length and remove any dead or diseased wood. This not only promotes new growth but also prevents the plant from becoming too straggly.
For perennials, cutting back old foliage is crucial to encourage healthy spring growth. Trim plants such as geraniums and daylilies down to ground level. This allows new shoots to grow without competition from the old, dead foliage. If you have ornamental grasses, you might consider leaving them until late winter or early spring. They can add visual interest to the garden during the colder months and provide shelter for wildlife.
When it comes to trees and shrubs, November is a good time to remove any crossing or rubbing branches, which can lead to damage and disease. Focus on maintaining an open structure to allow light and air to reach all parts of the plant. This helps to reduce the risk of fungal infections and encourages more robust growth in the coming seasons.
Always use sharp, clean tools for pruning to prevent the spread of disease. Secateurs, loppers, and pruning saws should be sterilised before use, especially if you are moving between different plants. After pruning, it can be beneficial to apply a layer of mulch around the base of the plants. This helps to protect the roots from frost and suppresses weed growth.
For hedges, a tidy trim can help them maintain their shape and density. Be sure not to cut them back too hard, as this can leave them vulnerable to winter damage. Light trimming and shaping should be sufficient to keep them looking neat.
By focusing on these tasks, you can ensure your garden remains in excellent condition, ready to thrive when the warmer weather returns.
