September - From the Potting Shed

With Gardening Expert Chris Milborne

 

September brings a second flush of growth, with late summer colour from Dahlias, Rudbeckias, Cosmos, Zinnias, Asters, and ornamental grasses. The rain in late July arrived just in time, helping to sustain borders through the dry weeks. This year, flowers haven’t lasted as long, so I’ve relied more on annuals for instant colour.

Tufts of fresh grass have appeared in the lawn, and the lower sun casts a golden light across the garden. Regular deadheading and feeding with a high-potash fertiliser every two weeks helps keep plants looking their best.

Though older gardening books saw September as the start of winding down, I still believe there are weeks of glorious gardening ahead. I take photos now while the garden is full - useful during winter for planning changes and improvements. This year, obelisks covered in Clematis viticella have added height, while beds improved with organic matter and ground cover have coped better with the weather.

Grouped containers retain moisture better and have thrived with regular care. As summer displays fade, I refresh tubs with Chrysanthemums, Heathers, Pansies, Violas, Heucheras, and Cyclamen for autumn colour.

September is also ideal for planting trees and shrubs. Warm soil and autumn rain help roots establish before winter. Even small gardens can accommodate a tree - providing structure, shade, privacy, and habitat for wildlife.

Lawns begin to recover now. I rake out thatch, spike compacted areas, and repair bare patches. On the veg patch, I’m harvesting Tomatoes, Beans, Courgettes, Sweetcorn, and Potatoes - smaller this year but full of flavour.

It’s also time to plant spring bulbs. Daffodils are my spring essential - easy to grow, reliable, and full of cheer. I often pot them up and plant them into gaps later as perennials fade.

So much still to do - and enjoy - in the September garden.