ACHIEVE A PICTUREPERFECT GARDEN
Autumn is the ideal time to get ahead of yourself by giving your garden a facelift and carrying out some essential maintenance
Revamp your garden in time for spring 2020 with our autumn maintenance inspiration.
Much like Rome, great summer gardens aren’t built in one day – or even one season. We may be moving into winter months and saying goodbye to al fresco dining and afternoons whiled away sunbathing, but that doesn’t mean you should just forget about your garden. In fact, now is the ideal time to get ahead of yourself with some essential maintenance and improvements. By next summer, you’ll have a picture-perfect garden. First, why not look at giving your paving and driveway a facelift? Rent or buy a power washer to freshen it up or, if you have the budget, go for a totally clean slate by ripping it up and laying new paving slabs. From permeable paving to flagstones or gravel, there are lots of options to suit the style of your house. Don’t forget about decking, trellises or fences, either. Regular maintenance (including tightening any loose panels, sanding, cleaning and repainting) will help to keep the woodwork in your garden healthy for as long as possible. The cooler autumn days might also be an ideal time to install new decking or an outdoor
sitting area – an on-trend option is a patio with simple wooden pergola. You may not get much use of it this year, but by next summer you’ll have the perfect place to sit and enjoy the sun. Secondly, start winter-proofing your garden furniture. Clean up chairs, benches or tables, and then store them safely in a shed or garage, or securely wrap them up against winter elements. Lastly, look after hedges (pruning them for the last time in autumn) and make sure to regularly clear fallen leaves off your lawn. Why not also plant spring-flowering bulbs and plants, such as tulips or daffodils, whilst you’re gardening? By the time spring and summer 2020 roll around you’ll have a haven of a garden perfect for relaxing or enjoying a barbecue in!