Monty Don, the renowned BBC gardener, has shared valuable advice for maintaining roses, tulips, foxgloves, onopordums, and mulleins during the month of October. In a recent blog post, he offers detailed insights into the essential tasks for gardeners this time of year. Don emphasises the importance of early action to safeguard plants from potential winter damage. For owners of climbing roses, he recommends a rigorous pruning regimen. This involves removing any damaged or crossing growth, along with older wood that can be pruned back to the ground. The main stems should be evenly spaced horizontally and fixed to wires or a trellis. Trimming side flower stems into short stubs is also advised to encourage lateral growth, limiting the impact of adverse weather conditions.
Furthermore, Don suggests planting or relocating foxgloves, onopordums, and mulleins to prepare them for upcoming flowering seasons. Naturescape experts add valuable insights, noting that onopordums such as Cotton thistle typically germinate in autumn. The blog highlights that most seeds sprout after the initial autumn rains, with the potential to behave as biennials or annuals based on germination times. Additionally, Don recommends continuing to plant spring bulbs but advises waiting another month before planting tulips.
October weather in the UK is unpredictably challenging, with contrasting temperatures from year to year. While recent predictions of snow may worry gardeners, Don’s expert guidance aims to help enthusiasts navigate this difficult period. His practical tips on pruning and planting offer a proactive approach to nurturing a healthy garden. Gardening enthusiasts are encouraged to follow Don’s advice to protect and prepare their plants for the changing seasons.