Gardener and horticulturalist Des Carton shares his top planting tips to ensure your garden bursts with life even as the days get shorter
Were you planning on ‘doing up the garden’ during the summer but then life got in the way and the weather you were hoping for never materialised?
Same.
However, if you thought the fact that it’s nearly September was a good excuse to tuck your gardening gloves away until next spring, think again. There are plenty of planting options to choose from that will keep you busy over the autumn and winter months.
For over 30 years, Des Carton has been instrumental in shaping the iconic AVOCA gardens. His passion for plant propagation and nursery gardening is evident in the thriving plants and unique garden centre he has helped cultivate. Des continues to work at the Kilmacanogue AVOCA location today, sharing his expertise with customers on a daily basis.
Here are his top recommendations for a blooming garden as we approach the winter months:
Biennials: Your key to a stunning spring
Des encourages gardeners to seize the moment and plant biennials between September to November. He recommends a captivating mix of fragrant wallflowers, elegant foxgloves, and charming forget-me-nots.
Bulbs: Plant now for a beautiful spring display
Autumn is the ideal time to plant most bulb varieties and a great option is to plant delicate snowdrops and cheerful daffodils that will emerge come spring. Planting them now in beds or borders guarantees a show-stopping display.
Tulips: A November planting treat
Unlike other bulbs which are best planted in early autumn, tulips flourish when planted later in the season in November’s cooler soil.
Des’s top tip:
Soil preparation is key. Des advises removing weeds and incorporating compost to enhance drainage and provide essential nutrients for thriving plants.
So there you have it! If you heed Des’s expert advice about embracing the magic of autumn planting, your garden could be an explosion of colour and fragrance come spring.
