The chill has returned. Your central heating has probably kicked back into life and you’ll be snuggled on the sofa in the evening. Your garden has likely taken a backseat for the time being, with yellowy brown leaves decorating the lawn – and the aftermath of high winds still evident.

But just because autumn has made its visible mark, it doesn’t mean your garden needs to be sacrificed. In fact, it’s a great time to get out there as the ground will be much softer because of rainfall. Simply put on an extra jumper, buy some warm gloves and give your outside space the TLC it needs.

So, what should you be doing in the build-up to winter?

1. Keep your garden clear

The chances are your garden has been left for the last few days and weeks as the wind and rain battered the UK, but now’s your chance to get out there and clear the debris. You can still enjoy your garden (even from the inside), so a tidy up will really help improve its visual appeal.

Plus, you’ll have leaves galore to use for compost. Collect up the leaves and use them to make organic mulch. Yes, it’ll take a couple of years to rot down, but you’ll reap the rewards. If you’re able to shred them first you’ll speed up the process – otherwise, collect them up and store them away in a shed or garage.

2. Plant some evergreens

If you’re garden’s starting to look a little bare now winter’s almost here, take the time to buy and plant evergreens. Every garden should have evergreens as the backbone, as they last all year round and keep your outside space looking bright and healthy.

Some great plants to choose include Sarcococca and Daphne with their glossy green leaves and beautifully fragrant flowers, or Camellias or Fatsia for their large architectural foliage.

Even if you won’t be outside enjoying the greenery, you’ll still be able to admire it from your home.

3. Maintain the lawn and decking

Lawns need to be kept in tip top condition all year round. They can start looking a little worse for wear in the autumn and winter months, so now’s a good time to really crack down.

Remove any old grass clippings and moss with a rake, and add this to your compost heap. You can also use this rake to help with drainage, pronging the ground throughout to remove moisture. Also, if you want to lay any new turf now’s the time to do it. It’ll have plenty of time to establish itself before spring.

Don’t forget your decking and patio areas either. Sweep away any debris and give both a good clean – with a power jet washer if you have one. You may also want to coat your decking with protective paint to keep it safe from the harsh weather and frost of winter.

4. Start thinking about the year ahead

What aspirations do you have for your garden? Do you have any grand plans for the summer ahead? Perhaps you haven’t even thought about it – but you should. Why? Because now’s the perfect time to be setting your plans and putting in place your ideas.

Maybe your garden could do with a redesign to make the most of natural light, or improve your options to host friends and family members? Perhaps you’ve been thinking of extending your home into the garden with a conservatory or orangery.

Whatever your hopes and ambitions, there are lots of amazing possibilities to truly create a space you can be proud of.

If you’d like any help with reimagining your garden, or designing your dream, give Millhouse a call. Contact us today, by calling 01732 590130.