There’s a definite chill in the air as the seasons are once more changing. Long sunny days in the garden will soon be a distant memory as they are replaced by cozy evenings by the fire. It’s easy to neglect the garden at this time of year, leaving leaves to pile up and plants to die off. However, a little effort now will pay dividends in the spring. Autumn is often seen as the big clear up, exposing the ground to let mother nature do its work over the winter in breaking down soil structure with sharp frosts. Autumn is also a good time to check the condition of the outside of your property ensuring you stay warm, safe and dry throughout winter. So grab your “big” coat and head off outside!
How to Prepare in Autumn For Winter
Garden
There’s plenty to do in the garden during Autumn. Start by clearing away dead plants, cutting back shrubs, hedges and sweeping away leaves as they fall. Empty pots and containers that have housed annual bedding plants over the summer. Clean them and store away until spring. Collect any autumn fruits and vegetable produce for preserving before they succumb to frost. Leave a few dead seed heads, fruits and leaves to provide a safe haven and food for wildlife over winter. Check your lawn and do one last cut before the cold weather really sets in. If your lawn is looking under par, it may be a good idea to consult a company offering lawn care services for advice. Autumn is also the time to plant spring flowering bulbs. These will add a welcome splash of color when the weather warms up.
Sheds and outhouses
Before the weather turns too bad, ensure that your sheds and outhouses are free from damage and watertight. Autumn is the best time for this.Repair as necessary and fix any loose panels. This will ensure they can withstand whatever the weather throws at them!
If you have children you may wish to clean and store away some of their outdoor toys. Sandpits can be emptied and stored as well as ride on toys and bikes. Store away any garden tools in order to protect them from the elements.
Guttering
Your gutters and drainage systems are likely to take a battering during the winter months. It’s worth taking a little time to ensure they are in good condition prior to the bad weather arriving. This is also best completed in Autumn. Ensure that gutters can flow freely. Consider getting them cleared of leaves once the leaf fall ceases. Ensure drains are clear of debris and rubble. Also, make sure guttering is safely secured to the wall.
Roof
Take the time to check the condition of your roof and chimney stacks in Autumn. Aim to have any damage fixed prior to winter. Ensure your roof has no loose or missing tiles. A slightly damaged roof is likely to get worse if it is left and the last thing you want to deal with is a major leak.
Spruce up windows and conservatories
Give everything a good clean both inside and out to make it sparklein Autumn! Conservatories are really useful spaces when properly maintained. They can be a lovely place to relax and look out onto a wintry garden. Also be sure to check for drafts around windows. If need be, place a plastic film over drafty windows.
Now you are equipped with the knowledge to prepare your homestead in Autumn for winter. Do you do these tasks on your homestead in fall? Are there any other suggestions you can make to prepare for winter? Leave me a comment and let me know below.
