Gardens require ongoing maintenance, with specific tasks for each season. Those experienced in cultivating an attractive garden space will be aware that each season also comes with its own set of tasks in preparation for the next season, responsibilities that if not performed will lead to more work and even a degree of risk.

When it comes to summer and autumn, homeowners should be making consideration for winter, since this is the most problematic season for an outdoor area. The season’s climate not only makes it difficult for residents to spend time outdoors tending to their gardens but also exposes plants and garden furniture to potentially destructive weather conditions.

If you’d like to avoid the problems of weeds taking hold or your flower beds and garden furniture degrading beyond repair this winter, then we have four essential considerations for you.

Preparing The Soil

Soil has health and it is important to support it, especially if you are hoping to grow flowers and vegetables. Top layers will, for example, not necessarily hold up well during the winter period if due care isn’t taken.

Depending on the type of soil you have, such as sandy or chalky, you will want to appropriately prepare the ground for winter. This can be done in a number of ways. Some choose to utilise mulch, which adds a protective and nutrient-rich layer to a garden bed, or straw as a way to keep their soil safe. Some keen gardeners will even encourage certain types of low-growing plants across their beds, which naturally bring an element of protection to the soil beneath.

Storing Furniture

If you have garden furniture, you should consider whether it will be able to withstand being exposed to wintery elements. The rain can quickly degrade tables and chairs, especially if they are made of wood, as well as prompt rust on barbeques and metal embellishments. Strong winds can also knock over plant pots or remove them from raised ledges.

Outbuilding Security

Outbuildings, such as garden sheds and log cabins, must be inspected and potentially protected prior to winter’s arrival so as to ensure that they will not become damaged or compromised. Any prospective leaks, for example, should be recognised and repaired immediately, or else harsh weather can compromise the integrity of an outbuilding.

If an outbuilding has other sensitive elements, such as electronics or glass panelling, these should be appropriately secured or covered in preparation for the weather.

Clear Drainage

Heavy rainfall, as well as snow and ice, can gather in a garden and very quickly cause issues. Ice has obvious risks, such as being a significant slip hazard, but can also damage slabs and concrete, leaving cracks. Water can also gather across a garden and end up shifting soil or clogging drains, causing flooding risks.

While it can be difficult to entirely protect a garden against flooding without installing artificial flooding tools, certain preparations can take place to ensure that a garden is protected, such as clearing drains and planting water-hungry plants and trees.