September gardening jobs: make the most of the autumn season
September is one of the busiest and most rewarding months in the garden – especially with the milder weather still around.
The soil is still warm from summer, rainfall is increasing and plants have plenty of time to establish before winter arrives.
Whether you’re growing vegetables, maintaining borders, or planning for next year, now is the perfect time to get outside and get gardening.
Spring-flowering bulbs
One of the most important jobs this month is planting spring-flowering bulbs. Daffodils, crocuses and alliums can be planted now to provide colourful displays next spring. It’s also a great time to start thinking about lifting and dividing overcrowded perennials, helping rejuvenate plants and create new additions for other areas of the garden.
September is ideal for planting trees, shrubs and hardy perennials too.
Our garden centre members have an excellent choice of plants available and the warm soil encourages strong root development before winter.
Harvesting crops
In the kitchen garden, continue harvesting crops such as tomatoes, runner beans, courgettes and potatoes.
As beds become vacant, clear away spent plants and add compost or well-rotted manure to improve soil structure. You can also sow winter salads, spinach and hardy spring cabbages for future harvests.
Lawns benefit from some attention during September too. Repair worn patches, scarify areas with excessive thatch and apply an autumn lawn feed. The combination of warm soil and cooler temperatures makes this one of the best months for establishing new grass.
Support wildlife
Don’t forget to support wildlife as the seasons change.
Leave seed heads on selected plants for birds to enjoy and consider adding late-flowering plants such as asters and sedums that provide valuable nectar for bees and other pollinators.
Finally, take time to enjoy the changing colours and rich harvests that make September such a special month in the garden.
A little effort now will help ensure your garden remains healthy, productive and full of colour well into the year ahead.
Like some more free advice?
Please visit or contact with your nearest GCA member garden centre. Click here to find one.