THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO winter
September
This month heralds the end of summer, which is marked by some glorious late-season colour
It’s time to…
ORDER BULBS Get bulb orders in early, so you’re guaranteed to get the ones you want. You can plant narcissi, crocuses, snowdrops and alliums from now, but keep tulip and hyacinth bulbs in a cool, dry place until October or November, when lower soil temperatures mean they aren’t as prone to disease.
BULBS IN POTS Grow some small, early bulbs like snowdrops and crocuses in pots, so you can enjoy them from your window in January and February. Pop wire netting on top to deter mice.
MAKE A CHANGE Review your borders – is there anything you’re not fond of? Dig it out and replace with something you’ll enjoy in autumn or winter. The ground is still warm, so it’s a great time to plant shrubs or perennials, as roots can establish before winter.
When summer bedding is past its best, dig it out and compost it. Fork over the soil and remove any weeds. Then add some winter bedding. Add wallflowers, primula or
