There are many gardening jobs to get done in October, including pruning and maintenance tasks. (Image: Getty)
Jamie Shipley, expert and managing director at , said: “Autumn is the perfect time to take an assessment of your outside space and start tidying up areas that have come a bit unruly.
“It’s also important to take preventative measures to protect your when storms hit.”
1. Prune deciduous trees and shrubs
October is an ideal time to this type of foliage because it’s not too cold and are less likely to incur damage from cold weather.
When it comes to pruning deciduous shrubs, the aim should be to maintain their size and shape to stop them from overtaking the garden or stealing light and nutrients.
They may only need a trim in October to help remove the fresh growth which appeared in late summer.
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2. Winter early-flowering shrubs
Jamie said: “It might seem crazy to think about watering shrubs at a time of year when rain is plentiful, but early-flowering shrubs benefit from an extra boost to look their best come spring.
“Azaleas, camellias and rhododendrons will all need watering if the weather in October is dry.”
3. Plant flowers and bulbs
The soil in October is still warm and moist enough for plants to establish a root system, according to the pro.
This means plants like dogwood, firethorn, skimmia and viburnum can all be planted now to add some lovely colour.
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When to prune plants (Image: EXPRESS)
The gardening expert noted: “Spring-flowering bulbs can also be planted in October, including daffodils, crocus, hyacinths and tulips.
“For the most part, hardy bulbs only need a sunny spot with good drainage and are easy to grow and care for.
“Begin by digging a hole wide and deep enough to take your chosen bulbs. A general rule of thumb is to plant bulbs two to three times their depth and space them a hand-span apart.”
It is also recommended to place the pointed tip of the bulb facing upwards.
Seeds such as aquilegia, cornflowers, Californian poppies and sweet peas can also be sown now.
When it comes to sowing sweet peas, a popular flower to add colour to the garden, the expert recommended planting three seeds in a 9cm pot using good quality compost.
Water well and leave in a cold frame or cool greenhouse ready to plant out in the following May. The gardening expert said: “Unfortunately in autumn we’re more prone to wet and windy conditions.
“There are a few pre-emptive measures you can take to protect your garden in these conditions.” This includes reinforcing tree ties and stakes, cleaning dead leaves and debris as well as sowing grass seed and applying fertiliser.
It’s also important to look out for pests and diseases as the main season for this is usually over the autumn months. Look out for honey fungus, grey mould, powdery mildew and silver leaf, all of which can kill or ruin plants.