What to do in the garden in November?

In November, garden maintenance is essential to prepare for winter and promote healthy plant recovery in spring. Here are the main tasks to do this month to keep your garden healthy during the cold season.

Dead leaves should be collected regularly to prevent them from accumulating on the lawn and encouraging the development of diseases. These leaves can be recycled into compost or mulch to protect plants and enrich the soil.

If the weather remains mild, a final mowing is possible in November. Set the mower slightly higher to avoid weakening the grass. Remove the clippings to prevent the lawn from being smothered during the winter.

Some plants such as roses or fragile shrubs require special protection. Mulch can be applied around the base to protect the roots, and even the aerial parts can be covered with a wintering fleece.

Summer flowering shrubs can be pruned lightly to remove dead or diseased branches. However, for fruit trees, light pruning is also recommended to remove dead wood and encourage future fruiting.

November is a good time to plant bare-root trees and shrubs because the soil is still warm and moist. This allows them to establish roots well before winter. It is also a good time to divide and replant perennials.

If you have spring bulbs (tulips, daffodils, crocuses) to plant, this is the last time to put them in the ground before the first frosts. For potted plants, remember to bring them indoors or protect them well.

November is also a great time to clean, sharpen and store tools. This extends their lifespan and allows you to start off with equipment in good condition next spring.

By November, the compost is often well advanced. It is time to turn it to aerate the decomposing organic matter, and, if necessary, cover it to protect it from excess rain.