Managing water
Roll up and store plastic hoses. Drain out standpipes and irrigation to avoid damage caused by water freezing inside them.
If not done already or they’re full of debris, clean water butts by emptying them and spraying out with a jet nozzle on the hose or scrubbing them with a brush. They will then be ready to catch the extra water expected at this time of the year.
Repairs
Store garden furniture in a garage or shed if you can to keep them dry and prolong their life.
Mend any broken or rotted pieces of wood in the structure of the compost bin, or in slatted wood garden furniture.
If you have not yet fixed or replaced any shed roof leaks, broken glasshouse panes or lost glazing clips, then now is your last chance to do so before moving your tender plants in for winter. More on cleaning the greenhouse.
Tools
Get ahead of the spring rush and service your lawnmower, hedge trimmers and any other power tools not needed over winter in preparation for next year.
Clean hand tools, removing mud and rubbing over with a wire brush to remove rust. Finally apply a little oil to metal surfaces.
Garden waste
Turn the compost heap to speed its decomposition. Check carefully for any wildlife living in the heap as you go.
Consider building a post and chicken wire leaf pen for autumn leaves. They turn into leafmould – very useful as a soil improver or as an ingredient in homemade potting and seed composts.
