The temperatures have dropped, and the leaves have fallen from many trees – and for many of us, it just feels as though work in the garden should be done and dusted for the year.
But Cherry Lane Garden Centre has urged people not to give up on their plants just because it’s winter. In fact, now, more than ever, your plants will need a little bit of TLC.
They shared on TikTok that this month is “all about pruning, protecting, and harvesting” so you will reap the benefits of your garden in spring and summer next year.
First off, they said that you should “fleece your tender plants, and treat them to a holiday in the greenhouse” or another indoor space rather than leaving them out in the sometimes minus temperatures.
This will mean that they’re able to flourish when the weather warms up again, and you won’t have to replace them.
According to the Royal Horticultural Society, “Fleece and crop covers can be laid over or around plants to encourage faster growth and protect against weather and pests. Many products contain plastic, but there are now plastic-free options available that are better for the environment.”
They also share that the fleece can “insulate plants against winter cold” and it protects “from other aspects of harsh weather”. They state that it can be “very effective”.
You should also “prune raspberry cane to the ground” and “use the canes as plant supports” throughout the winter.
In the comments, someone wrote: “I was just thinking the other day when to prune my raspberry canes. They are autumn fruiting. Does this make a difference?”
The garden centre responded: “They should be fine to prune anywhere between now and the end of January whilst they’re dormant, as this won’t affect the plant’s growth”.
If you’ve been growing carrots in the garden, it’s also time to harvest the last of those “for a hearty winter stew, or your Christmas Dinner”.
If you’re thinking of planting your own carrots next year for your Christmas Dinner, the best time to sow the seeds is in spring, according to Gardeners’ World.
Someone else asked: “Do you need to water plants once wrapped and placed in the greenhouse? Thank you”.
They responded: “They’ll still need watering, but will require less than in other seasons”.
