We’ve just celebrated the autumn equinox, marking the point where the days and nights are the same length. From this point the days will grow shorter and we’ll be on the way to the winter months.
Until then, we are trying to get out in the garden and do as much as possible. We’ve only lived here a few months but already we’ve made huge changes to the space and want to do as much as we can before the cold comes.
At the weekend we had some mixed weather, with a colder start each day but with the sun coming out by the afternoon. So on went the coats and out we went!
The garden in September
The main jobs we are focusing on at the moment are all tidying-related. The garden starts to wind down at this time of year and everything can begin to look quite scruffy, so you need to make sure you neaten everything up and keep it looking its best for as long as possible.
We managed to plant some tomato plants when we first moved into the new house in June and they have provided us with fresh tomatoes for the last few months. There are still a few to come (as long as we still get some sun) and so need tending to to keep them healthy.
Weeds are almost under control thankfully, so only need a little maintenance. I’ve had quite a steep learning curve the past few months, having zero gardening knowledge previously. Now I can spot a weed and am slowly learning the names of the plants we have inherited as well as the new plants we have introduced to the borders.
Other jobs to do in September include:
Collect seeds from pods, ready to sow again for next year.
Lift & divide perennials
Plant spring bulbs
Mostly you want to soak up as much of the sun as possible and enjoy the space. Think about what you want to do for the next year, what plants you’ve enjoyed this year and what you want to add to the space come the spring.
Gardening for mental health
Being outside really helps me to feel grounded and at peace – shutting out the noise of the rest of the world and the chaos that brings. All I want to do is be in the garden, wear comfy clothes and enjoy my family.
And I’m not the only one – Fred loves being out in the garden with me too. Although he now seems to think that he is allowed to dig up the flowers as well!
There are so many benefits to gardening, including stress reduction, keeping active, making a connection with nature and having a sense of accomplishment. All of these enhance your overall wellbeing and help lower anxiety levels brought about by the fast-paced world we live in.
Plans for the garden
Over the next few months we will be building a polytunnel and introducing a willow tunnel and “fedge” to one section of the garden. Otherwise it will be quite quiet in the garden while the cold weather is here and the plants slow their growth and rest until spring.
Until then, I will continue to enjoy any warm sunny days we have and the tranquility that comes from being out in nature.