As summer draws to a close, September offers gardeners a key window to transition from harvesting to preparing for the next growing season while also supporting garden wildlife. James Ewens, gardening expert at Green Feathers, said: "Your September jobs don't have to be exhaustive, but a little goes a long way. Your garden is experiencing less daylight and cooler temperatures, and more moisture in your soil works in your favour for planting and establishing new growth. September is also a vital time to support our wildlife populations by building up food and shelter reserves, including our feathered friends and our pollinators. These five small gardening jobs can make a huge difference to your garden's success in the year to follow."
Plant spring bulbs
The soil in September retains some of the warmth from the summer months, making it an ideal time to plant spring-flowering bulbs. This allows roots to establish in the mild soil before the winter chill. Bulbs such as daffodils, tulips, crocuses and hyacinths can develop robust root systems that endure winter frost and produce blooms in spring. By staggering varieties, gardeners can enjoy months of colour, with crocuses appearing as early as February and late tulips in May. Early spring flowers also provide some of the first essential nectar sources for bees emerging from winter hibernation.
Divide your perennials
Many herbaceous perennials, including asters and daylilies, benefit from being divided every three to four years. September is a suitable time for this task as the ground remains manageable and plants begin to reduce their growth. Dividing perennials prevents overcrowding, reduces competition for nutrients and rejuvenates older clumps that may have stopped flowering as strongly. Spreading different varieties around the garden also helps extend the feeding period for pollinators, offering a consistent supply of energy and nutrients.
Support wildlife
Wildlife faces challenges in winter, so September is an excellent opportunity to provide water, food and shelter. Retaining seedheads on sunflowers, planting native trees and shrubs, and providing bird-friendly food such as high-energy bird cakes or fat balls supplies food for birds. Heaps of logs, leaves and branches provide immediate shelter for hedgehogs, amphibians and insects. Delaying heavy pruning gives insects a safe home for winter, maintaining biodiversity at a crucial time of year.
Care for your lawn
September is a good time for lawn care because conditions are ideal for repair and rejuvenation. Warm soil and frequent rainfall enable new grass to germinate rapidly, while aerating compacted soil improves drainage and root growth. Overseeding bare patches allows lawns to thicken before winter, giving an even, healthy appearance. A light feed with something high in potassium and phosphorus promotes strong root growth and winter hardiness. A healthy lawn also supports birds foraging for worms and insects.
Harvest remaining crops
Apples, pears, plums, squash, pumpkins, late beans and courgettes are ready to pick in September. Regular harvesting encourages continued fruitful crops and prevents waste. Gathering fruits and vegetables at their prime also deters pests and reduces the risk of disease spreading.
By tackling these five small jobs this September, gardeners can bridge the gap between summer and the next growing season, setting the stage for a vibrant and productive garden in the year ahead.