As autumn approaches, gardeners across the UK will be gearing up for an important planting season.
September marks a good time to sow seeds for a vibrant spring display, as it leaves enough time for plants to establish before the first winter frosts.
Experts believe the recent weather may prompt gardeners to start their preparations slightly earlier than usual this year.
For an abundant spring display, the best plants in September are hyacinths, daffodils and poppies.
Poppies and hyacinths are good plants to sow in September
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Hyacinths, with 21,000 monthly Google searches, should be planted 10cm deep and 8cm apart to prevent overcrowding.
Daffodils are equally ideal for September planting, preferably in a sheltered spot once the pods have ripened and turned brown.
Poppies will thrive too if sown directly into a sunny, well-drained area over the coming weeks.
Experts recommend thinning out the seedlings to 30cm apart once they’re large enough to handle.
Head of estates and landscapes at Painshill Park Trust Simon Akeroyd offered some advice on the best plants to sow this autumn.
He said: “Although many people associate spring with being the time to get out sowing and planting in the garden, hyacinths will benefit from being sown in autumn.
“This is partly because the soil is still warm from the summer and it gives plants enough time to establish before the colder months.”
Akeroyd notes that some plants require cold weather to spell an end to their dormancy, such as daffodils.
“This process is called stratification and you can replicate it by placing seeds in compost in the fridge for a few weeks.”
Ensuring you have good soil draining is crucial for the survival of plants during the wet autumn and winter months.
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Plants like poppies perform well when sown in September
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“Wet soil is one of the biggest killers of plants during winter,” noted Akeroyd. “Their chances of survival can be improved by adding a few handfuls of horticultural grit to heavy clay soils and digging it in.”
To protect the plants from harsh winter conditions, the gardening enthusiast suggests creating a barrier between the plant and the environment.
“You can place a fleece or cloche over some emerging seedlings,” he explained.
“For people with more practical DIY, it is possible to make a cold frame from an old window pane and some timber or bricks. Planting near a wall or fence can provide some shelter from extreme cold.”
