Garden experts caution landscapers about the anticipated 'pseudo-autumn' and suggest implementing these three strategies to maintain plant health
In the face of increasingly hot summers and unpredictable weather, gardening enthusiasts are urged to adapt their gardens to withstand the challenges ahead. Kate Turner, a gardening guru at Miracle-Gro, advises that investing in drought-tolerant plants now is a strategic move for future-proofing gardens.
As we approach the colder months, mulching becomes an essential gardening task. Turner recommends mulching now, as it gives plants a much-needed boost for the winter ahead. Mulching is ideal during heavy rain, as it locks in moisture, shields roots, improves soil health, and keeps the ground warm for longer. A great choice for mulching is Levington Composted Bark, available at Amazon for £7.69 for 50 litres.
Experts advise holding off on pruning plants and trees until the 'proper' autumn begins. This is because plants need recovery time from summer stress, and pruning too early can cause harm. Kate Turner suggests waiting for the 'proper' autumn to prune for better plant recovery.
The phenomenon of early leaf fall, often referred to as a 'false autumn', is due to extreme weather conditions, including heatwaves and drought, during the summer. This unusual weather pattern has been observed in many parts of the world, including Germany, where experts from the Horticultural Association of Germany noted a trend among plant breeders in 2024. They observed that customers are increasingly interested in Mediterranean plants and drought-resistant lawn grasses during the so-called 'false autumn time'.
Old Railway Line Garden Centre's gardening specialist, Liam Cleary, reports an unusual autumn trend: customers seeking out Mediterranean plants and drought-resistant grasses. One such resilient and beautiful drought-tolerant plant is Sedum 'Autumn Joy', available at Crocus from £9.99.
The increased popularity of drought-tolerant plants is a strategic move by experienced gardeners responding to the phenomenon of 'false autumn'. It's important to be aware of the plants that should not be pruned in autumn to avoid damaging them. Learning how to protect plants from frost with mulch is beneficial for gardeners.
Sophie King, who joined the our platform team as Gardens Editor in June 2024, shares growing hacks for every space, from herbaceous borders to balconies. She emphasises the importance of adapting gardens to the changing climate and encourages gardeners to embrace drought-tolerant plants and mulching to keep their gardens healthy and beautiful.
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