The Secret Season: Stop Tidying, Start Planting!
Mid-October in London often marks a rush to ‘put the garden to bed.’ We see clients cutting back aggressively and clearing every last fallen leaf. At Eden Gardens, we want to challenge that instinct. We believe October isn’t the end of the gardening year—it’s the start of the next one!
At Eden Gardens, we encourage our clients to think about what to plant now to prepare for a vibrant display next spring.
Forget the spring rush. The secret to a truly breathtaking garden display next year lies in taking action right now, while the soil is still warm.
Why Planting in October Gives You the Edge
While the air is crisp, the ground retains the residual warmth from the summer sun. This “warm soil, cool air” combination is absolutely ideal for root establishment:
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Deep Rooting: Plants put all their energy into developing strong, deep roots rather than focusing on top growth. This makes them significantly tougher and more resilient against pests next spring.
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Spring Head Start: By the time the first shoots appear in March, your plants are already well-anchored, allowing them to explode into bloom weeks ahead of anything planted later.
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Bulb Success: October is the perfect time to plant most of your spring bulbs (Daffodils, Crocus, Hyacinths, Alliums). Pro Tip: Wait until November to plant Tulips, as this helps prevent viral diseases.
Consider the types of plant you want, as the right choices will ensure your garden thrives.
Eden Gardens’ October Planting Must-Haves
Choosing the right plant varieties can significantly enhance your garden’s look and resilience.
If you want a professional-looking garden next spring, focus on these planting categories this month:
1. Structural Evergreens (The Winter Framework)
Evergreens provide essential structure and colour when deciduous plants drop their leaves. Planting them now allows them to settle before winter frosts hit.
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Pittosporum: Offers beautiful, dark foliage that works perfectly as a hedge or a striking backdrop.
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Mahonia: Provides architectural shape and, often, scented yellow flowers in the dead of winter.
2. Perennials for Longevity
Planting hardy perennials now, such as Peonies or Heucheras (loved for their colourful, year-round foliage), means they have months to establish deep roots, resulting in a more spectacular show come summer.
3. The Golden Rule of Planting Schemes: The ‘October Gap’
When designing new beds, we always look for plants that bridge the visual gap between late summer and the first frosts.
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Asters (Michaelmas Daisies): Reliable, vibrant purple, pink, and white daisy-like flowers that keep the colour going.
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Ornamental Grasses: Miscanthus or Pennisetum are stunning now. Their plumes catch the soft, low autumn light, adding dramatic texture and movement. Don’t cut them back until late February!
Ready to Design Your Spring Success?
Don’t treat October as cleanup duty. Treat it as a strategic planting window! Whether you’re planning a massive landscape overhaul or simply adding life to existing borders, getting plants in the ground now guarantees a stronger, more beautiful garden when spring returns.
Remember, every plant you install now is an investment in your garden’s future.
Contact Eden Gardens today to discuss a strategic autumn planting plan tailored to your London property.
Let us help you select the best plant for your space and vision.
