Autumns garden maintenance jobs

As autumn settles in, gardens across South Hams and South Devon begin to transform. October is a key month for tidying up, protecting plants, and preparing outdoor spaces for the colder months ahead. A little effort now will make a big difference come spring — and at Terraform Gardens, we’re here to help you get your garden winter-ready.

🍂 1. Clear Leaves and Debris

Fallen leaves may look picturesque, but they can quickly smother grass and flower beds. Regularly raking and clearing leaves keeps your lawn healthy and prevents fungal diseases. Compost them if possible — they make excellent leaf mould for next year’s borders.

🌱 2. Cut Back Perennials and Tidy Borders

As summer blooms fade, cut back dead stems and tidy perennial plants. Remove weeds before they set seed, and add a layer of compost or mulch to protect roots from frost. October is also a good time to divide overgrown clumps and refresh your flower borders.

🌳 3. Trim Hedges and Prune Trees

Neat hedges and well-pruned trees not only look tidy but also help prevent storm damage. Light trimming in October keeps everything under control without encouraging new growth before winter. For larger trees, consider a professional assessment to ensure they’re safe in high winds.

🌾 4. Look After Your Lawn

Moss and compaction often become problems in autumn. Aerate the soil to improve drainage and apply an autumn lawn feed rich in potassium to strengthen roots. If your lawn has thin patches, overseeding now will help it recover before the cold sets in.

🧹 5. Clean Patios, Paths, and Decking

Algae and moss can make surfaces slippery over winter. A thorough clean in October will help prevent this and extend the life of your hard landscaping. Pressure washing or brushing with a specialist cleaner will bring patios and paths back to life.

🪵 6. Check Fences, Gates, and Garden Structures

Strong autumn winds can quickly find weaknesses. Check that fences, trellises, and gates are secure, and repair any damage before winter arrives. Treating wooden structures with preservative helps protect against damp and decay.

🌸 7. Plant for Spring Colour

October is one of the best months for planting spring bulbs such as daffodils, tulips, and crocuses. They’ll brighten your garden early next year and provide a welcome burst of colour after winter.

Why October Garden Maintenance Matters

Taking care of your garden now makes life much easier in spring. You’ll prevent damage, protect your plants, and ensure your outdoor spaces stay attractive all year round.

At Terraform Gardens, we offer reliable garden maintenance across the South Hams and South Devon — from lawn care and hedge trimming to border tidying and outdoor maintenance.

💚 Let us do the hard work while you enjoy your garden at its best.

📞 Get in touch today to book your October maintenance visit.

👉 www.terraformgardens.co.uk