Following the UK’s warmest year on record so far*, many of our gardens are in need of some extra TLC this autumn to recover. Investing time in your garden now will help to prepare for the colder months ahead and means when next spring comes around, you’ll be able to enjoy your garden sooner. 

 

Make repairs

The prolonged hot weather may have led to cracks forming in the garden, in places like paving, and now is the ideal time to check over your garden to identify any damage. This will give you sufficient time to make repairs ahead of the winter. Fear not if you do identify any cracks, as there are plenty of DIY repair solutions available to help prevent further damage that could be caused by frost.

 

Lawncare

We’re a nation proud of our luscious green grass, but this summer was particularly harsh on lawns, thanks to the extreme heat and watering restrictions across the country. With the cooler temperatures and return of rainfall, our lawns are starting to recover naturally but it’s best to give a helping hand with the use of an autumn lawn fertiliser, which will better protect grass from frost and ice.

 

The importance of patio sealer

Paths and patios are vulnerable to the different weather elements and can become treacherous in frosty weather, causing nasty accidents and falls. Porcelain tiles are a brilliant option as they are naturally frost and slip resistant, but don’t worry as there are a number of ways you can make your natural stone, concrete and block paving safer for all the family. A path and patio seal can be used to give a low sheen slip resistant finish, while adding a hard-wearing, water repellent film to offer weather protection.

 

 

Garden Storage

When we think of storage we often think of inside our homes, but it’s important to have suitable outside storage to keep your belongings, like lawnmowers and bikes, safe and protected from the elements. Check your sheds and outbuilding to ensure they are damage-free and pay particular attention to the roof to prevent leaks! Also, remember that sheds and outdoor buildings can be easy to access, so make sure you choose some good quality padlocks to secure your belongings.

 

A lick of fence paint

Over time, fences and wooden sheds start to look tired as the paint begins to fade and the extreme heat we faced this year will have sped up the process. A simple, yet cost effective, way to update your garden this autumn is to repaint your fences and with a wide variety of colours to choose, from rustic brown and woodland green to contemporary grey, this will instantly transform the overall look of your outdoor space. You can also help protect your fences and sheds for years to come by investing in an oil-based wood treatment, which helps to repel water and reduce weather damage.

 

 

Add planters  

The colder months can cause havoc with plant pots, as water can become trapped inside and freeze, which often leads to cracks. Research the different materials available and look at investing in sustainable decorative planters made from 100% recycled plastic, such as Plaswood Garden Furniture. There’s a range of different styles and colours to choose from and unlike wood or steel, it is weather resistant so it’s completely maintenance free and will look great all year round.  

 

 

*https://www.metoffice.gov.uk/about-us/press-office/news/weather-and-climate/2022/joint-hottest-summer-on-record-for-england