Published on: 09/11/2026 by Sophie Grant
What can I do in the garden this month?
The temperature has dropped this month here in the UK, and I think we are all feeling the fresh whips of wind after such a searing summer.
The November mist and golden trees are putting on a fantastic display so far this month, and it is important to remember to pause once in a while to take in the changing seasons in the garden.
However, if you are going to do anything this month, I would do these 5 things to get the most out of your garden.
1. Protect your tender plants against the quickly approaching frosts.
We can all feel it. Although late this year, the first frost is quickly approaching, so it is important to identify which of your plants are tender and need to be protected from the sub zero temperatures.
Depending on where you live, you might be able to keep your plants in the ground all year round. To do this, apply a thick layer of our Mulch to insulate the roots and prevent frost from going down into the ground. Our mulch not only protects plants from the cold, but it also improves soil quality, supports microbiology, and provides a boost of nutrition to keep the plants happy all through Winter until Spring. Once spring arrives, your soil will be in a great condition to plant into, and you will be left with a very healthy, beautiful garden.
If you live in a cooler part of the country, or you have tender plants in pots, you can move them into a sheltered place such as a greenhouse, garage, summerhouse or anywhere where the frost won't get in.
If the number of plants heavily outweigh available space indoors, you can raise your pots on feet to prevent the compost from freezing from the ground up. You can also use horticultural fleece around the plants to protect against lighter frosts.
2. Plant tulips for a gorgeous spring display.
The ground has cooled, and now it is the perfect time to get your tulip bulbs into the ground. choose a well drained, sunny or partially sunny spot, plant them two to three times the height of the bulb, about 5-8 inches. For a full display, pack them close together but not touching. This looks great in pots with a good quality Compost. Tulips enjoy free draining, fertile medium to grow in. Make sure to choose a quality compost to ensure that you get the best display in Spring.
If planting in beds, a good rule is to space them twice their width apart from each other.
3. Plant up your winter containers and pots.
When planting winter containers and pots, make sure to choose a frost proof material. Try to avoid thinly walled pots that are vulnerable to cracking as the soil freezes and expands.
If possible, choose a well sheltered, sunny spot to place the container/pot. Once you have found a place, fill your pot 3/4 of the way with good quality compost.
Now time for your plants. Choose a plant that adds vertical interest that is either evergreen or is structural. Skimmia Japonica, Dwarf Conifer, or Christmas Box are great options for your "thriller" plant. Place this at the back of the container or pot.
Next, place a plant that will add some colour to the pot. Violas, Pansies, Cyclamen, and Primrose are all great options for this. Plant in groups of three depending on how big your container is, and don't be afraid to pack them all closely together for more impact. Plants stay dormant and will not take over your container in winter.
Finally choose a plant that will spill over the edge of the container and fill any final gaps. These plants will cascade over the edge and create a beautiful waterfall effect. English Ivy is a classic choice for your "Spiller" plant. You can choose a variegated Ivy that will add another pop of brightness to the darker months.
If you need to fill a shaded spot, Ferns and non variegated Ivy will thrive in these conditions.
4. Keep the birds fed
This time of year can be difficult for our feathery friends, so make sure to keep your bird feeders full. Fat balls are also recommended to put out this time of year until early spring to give the birds the energy they need.
5. Remove fallen leaves from your lawn
Leaving fallen leaves on the lawn can smother the grass, create dead patches and invite disease, so it is important to regularly rake leaves up from your lawn. Any leaves smothering small plants, or that have become too thick must also be removed.
Any leaves that fall into your pond if you have one, or diseased leaves with unusual spots or markings must also be removed. Do not put the diseased leaves into a leafmould or compost heap. Instead, you can either bury, burn, or dispose of the diseased leaves to prevent spreading the disease around your garden.
You can leave a light layer of leaves on your garden beds, acting as a natural mulch. You can also use collected leaves to make leafmould. Simply put the leaves into a used compost bag or big bag with holes, close it up, and leave it for at least a year.
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