The AUTUMN reset

A few smart changes now can mean the difference between struggling plants and a thriving spring garden

- 

While your garden may look like it's winding down right now, it's actually entering one of its most important phases, and what you do now can determine whether your plants limp through winter or thrive when spring returns.

If your once-happy plants are looking tired, patchy or just plain unhappy, chances are one of these common autumn missteps is to blame.

THE WAY YOU WATER

After months of summer heat, it's easy to keep up the same watering routine. But cooler temperatures and shorter days mean soil retains moisture for longer. Overwatering, one of the fastest ways to suffocate roots, therefore, becomes a real risk.

The fix

Check your soil before you water. If the top few centimetres are still damp, hold off. Rather, water deeply and less often to encourage stronger root systems. Early morning remains the best time to water as it allows excess moisture to evaporate during the day.

IGNORING THE SOIL

By this time of the year, your soil has worked hard. Nutrients may be depleted, structure compacted, and beneficial microbes reduced, especially after a busy growing season.

The fix