Advice
November's weather
Winter is on its way
Leaves are falling rapidly now, and wind and rain are on the increase. Mild spells are possible and the grass may still grow a little in southern England and the Midlands.
Cold snaps are likely, particularly in the second half of the month. Frost, gales, freezing rain and snow are all possible, depending on where you are in the UK. Local topography can cause the weather to vary even within a small area. It is worth getting to know your local weather patterns, and gardening accordingly.
Temperature
Although temperatures can be fairly mild this month, it may well feel colder than temperatures suggest. Wind and rain add a chill to the air.
In 2002-2004, average UK November temperatures varied from a minimum of 3-5°C (37-41°F) to a maximum of 8-11.5°C (46-53°F). But these were warmer than average years. November 2005 was colder and more in line with long-term UK averages, with UK averages ranging instead from 2.2°C (35°F) to 9°C (49°F), and eastern Scotland dropping as low as 1°C (33°F). There is therefore always the possibility of cold November weather in 2006, despite the generally warmer temperatures of the last five to 10 years. Gardeners should be prepared to protect their plants from the cold (link to advice), as night temperatures could drop under 5°C (41°F) in many regions, and even near to zero in colder areas, with sudden frosts catching the unprepared gardener unawares.
The south west of England is often the mildest UK region at this time of year, with northern and eastern parts of Scotland being the coldest. Coastal regions, inland flats and cities are likely to be warmer than hilltops and valleys. The western half of the UK may well be milder than the east.
Rain
Rainfall can be very variable at this time of year. November 2005 rainfall was below average in England and Northern Ireland, but above average in Wales and Scotland. November 2004 UK rainfall was well below average in most regions, 2003 was close to average, and 2002 was generally above average, with major flooding in some areas.
Generally, averages of about 160mm in Scotland, 150mm in Wales, 110mm in Northern Ireland and 80-90mm in England are typical.
But regional variations can be marked, and local topography will also create significant differences. The west of Scotland, the coastal parts of Wales and the Lake District of England are some of the wettest UK regions, with around 180mm of rain in November. Parts of southwest England can expect 120-130mm. Eastern Scotland, Northern Ireland and northern England are roughly comparable in rainfall, with around 110mm being typical for November. The Midlands can expect about 80mm, but East Anglia and southern England generally have the lowest rainfall, with means of 60-70mm being typical for November. However, in a dry November, as little as 45mm is possible in the South East.
Snow is rare in November, but much more likely in parts of Scotland, particularly over higher ground. November 2005 saw significant snow for many UK regions, with enough snow to cause disruption in Wales, Devon, Cornwall, Gloucestershire and Greater Manchester. This was unusual weather for recent warmer years, but always a possibility for the UK in November.
Rain usually begins to replenish underground water supplies now as the topsoil is thoroughly wetted in most Novembers, and surplus water seeps deeper ending up in aquifers, streams and rivers. This is especially important this year as many districts have had insufficient rain to replenish water resources over the last 18 months.
Wind
Gales are more frequent this month, especially in the Scottish Highlands, the Welsh hills, and along the western coasts of England, Wales and Scotland. Northern Ireland is more sheltered, being protected by the westerly parts of the Irish and Scottish land mass.
Damage is much less in November as tree no longer carry leaves greatly reducing wind resistance.
Short gusts up to gale speed may, however, occur anywhere and funnelling effects between buildings or landmasses can worsen conditions even in cities that are usually quite sheltered.
Take care when using ladders, when doing any kind of spraying, or when using overhead irrigation systems (in the unlikely event of their being needed in November).
Sunshine
Day length is now short, especially towards the north of the UK and the angle of the sun is much lower. There is very little growth in November, but some useful growth of hardy evergreen shrub and leafy winter vegetables such as leeks and Brussels sprouts may occur.
The south coast of England has the most sunshine at this time of year, with 65-70 hours being a typical average for November, but with 107 hours not being unusual in the South West. 59 hours is more typical for Wales, 45 hours for Scotland and 50 hours for Northern Ireland. Local variations do occur, with some areas being more favoured than others.
Hill fogs can reduce visibility in higher areas, and coastal fogs can occasionally be troublesome near the sea.
The number of productive working hours that can be spent in the garden is now much reduced. You may wish to think about installing lighting in the garden, shed or greenhouse, either to increase productivity or simply to enjoy the view outside from cosy windows.