The leaves are starting to turn brown, the evenings are drawing in, and there’s a definite chill in the air. While it might be tempting to hang up your gardening gloves and retreat indoors, there’s still plenty to do in the garden this month. In fact, a few simple September jobs could make all the difference to how your outdoor space looks and performs in the months ahead.
Below, we share the easy gardening jobs worth tackling in September.
1. Plant spring bulbs
The soil in September retains some warmth from the peak summer months, making it the perfect time to plant your spring-flowering bulbs. This lets the roots establish in the tepid soil before the winter bite kicks in.
‘Spring-flowering bulbs, like daffodils, tulips, crocuses and hyacinths can develop strong root systems that will survive the winter chill, and develop vibrant blooms in spring – they’re worth the wait,’ explains James Ewens, gardening expert at Green Feathers.
By staggering your varieties, you can expect months of colour, with crocuses showing their faces in February, and late tulips in May.
2. Divide your perennials
Many herbaceous perennials, such as asters and daylilies, benefit from being divided every three to four years – and September is the perfect time to do this.
‘The soil is still workable and plants are starting to slow their growth as autumn draws near,’ says James. ‘Dividing your perennials prevents overcrowding, reduces plants’ competition for nutrients, and rejuvenates those older clumps that may have stopped blooming as vigorously.’
Spreading different varieties of flowers helps extend the feeding season for pollinators, giving them the much-needed consistent source of energy and nutrients.
3. Support wildlife
Wildlife is up against it in winter, so September is the perfect time to create a safe haven by providing water, food, and shelter for those scarce cold months.
‘Something as small as leaving the seed heads on your sunflowers, planting native trees and shrubs, and supplementing your garden with bird-loving food like high-energy bird cakes or fat balls provides a food source for birds,’ James explains.
Piles of leaves and branches can be a high-impact hack, creating instant shelter for hedgehogs, amphibians, and insects. Delaying heavy pruning gives insects a safe home for winter, maintaining biodiversity at the most crucial time of year.
4. Care for your lawn
If your lawn is looking a little worse for wear after the summer heat, September is the perfect time to give your grass some TLC as these conditions are ideal for repair and rejuvenation.
‘Tepid soil and regular rainfall means new grass can germinate quickly, while aerating compacted soil improves drainage and root growth,’ says James. ‘It’s also the optimal time to over-seed those bare patches on our lawns, so they can thicken before winter.’
A light feed in September with something high in potassium and phosphorus can also promote strong root growth and winter hardiness. A healthy lawn not only looks good, but it also supports birds foraging for worms and insects.
5. Harvest fruit and vegetables
Avid gardeners know that September is one of the busiest harvest months of the year, with fruits like apples, pears, plums and vegetables like squash, pumpkins, late beans, and courgettes all now ready to be picked.
‘Regular harvesting encourages continued fruitful crops, and prevents them from falling and going to waste,’ James tells us.
Collecting fruits and vegetables at their peak also prevents pests and the spreading of diseases – making it the perfect time to enjoy the fruits of your labour.
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