As summer comes to an end and the days get shorter, it is time to prepare your garden for the colder months. Rain, wind, frost and damp conditions can take their toll on outdoor furniture and gardening equipment if they are left exposed to the elements.
A little preparation now can help protect your belongings, keep your garden tidy and make it easier to get everything ready when spring arrives. Here is how to give your garden an autumn shutdown.
Clean and Store Your Garden Furniture
Before putting your garden furniture away, give it a good clean. Brush away fallen leaves, dirt and other debris, then wipe surfaces using a cleaning method suitable for the material. Check the care instructions before using any cleaning products or protective treatments.
Allow everything to dry fully before storing it. Putting damp furniture away can encourage mould and mildew, particularly in enclosed spaces.
If you have room, store tables and chairs in a shed, garage or other dry, sheltered area. If furniture needs to stay outside, use a suitable weatherproof cover and make sure it is secure against strong winds.
Garden cushions, parasols and removable fabric accessories should ideally be cleaned, dried and stored indoors. These items can absorb moisture, so keeping them dry will help them stay fresh for next summer.
Read our blog: protecting your garden furniture.
Give Your Garden Tools Some Attention
Autumn is a good time to clean your garden tools before storing them for winter. Remove mud, grass clippings and plant debris from lawnmowers, hedge trimmers, spades and secateurs. Make sure everything is dry before putting it away to help prevent rust and corrosion.
Check for signs of wear, loose parts or damaged handles. Sorting out minor maintenance issues now can help you avoid problems when you next need your tools.
Store hand tools somewhere dry and secure, ideally on shelves or hooks to keep them organised and off damp floors.
For electric and battery powered equipment, disconnect the power supply and remove batteries where instructed. Store batteries in a suitable indoor location, following the manufacturer's guidance. Petrol powered tools may need additional preparation before long term storage, so always check the user manual before carrying out maintenance or handling fuel.
Read our blog: garden tool maintenance
Prepare Your Lawn for Winter
Your lawn may not need as much attention during the colder months, but a little preparation can make a difference. Remove fallen leaves regularly, as a thick layer can block light and leave the grass damp underneath.
If the grass is still growing, you may need one final cut before winter. Avoid cutting it too short and wait for a dry day when conditions are suitable.
Once you have finished mowing, clean your lawnmower according to its instructions and store it in a dry, sheltered place.
Read our blog: last cut of the year
A Little Preparation Goes a Long Way
Getting your garden ready for autumn does not have to be a big job. By cleaning your furniture, storing cushions, checking your tools and clearing fallen leaves, you can help protect your belongings from winter weather.
Take it one step at a time, and you will thank yourself when spring comes around and your garden is ready to enjoy again.