Autumn has arrived, and it’s the perfect time to get my garden and community garden ready for the colder months, as well as plan ahead for next spring. I’ve been out clearing beds, removing any spent plants, and making sure the soil is healthy and well-mulched, ready for new seeds and seedlings.
This month, I’m focusing on planting hardy vegetables that will thrive over the autumn and winter. I’ve sown garlic, shallots, and broad beans, which should all establish themselves now and provide a good early harvest next year. Alongside these, I’m planting autumn lettuces, spinach, and rocket, which will give a steady supply of fresh leaves well into the colder months.
At the community garden, I’ve been working with other members to prepare our raised beds, making sure we have plenty of compost and protection against frost. We’re planting kale, winter cabbage, and carrots in the deeper beds, and I’ve even reserved some space for overwintering onions. It’s satisfying to see everything laid out and to know that we’re setting ourselves up for a productive winter and an early spring start.
Of course, it’s not all work. I’ve been enjoying walking around the garden, checking for any late pests, and admiring the autumn colours. The slower pace of gardening at this time of year is a great chance to reflect, plan, and get excited for the growing season ahead.
With a few more hours of planting and tidy-up work, I know the garden will be in excellent shape, and it’s rewarding to see the fruits of careful planning and preparation taking shape. Autumn is busy, but it’s also the season that sets up success for the year to come.