Why autumn and winter are planning seasons
Practical guidance for homeowners across Surrey, Sussex and Hampshire.
Autumn and winter are not dead time in the garden. They are when some of the best decisions can be made.
See what the garden needs
Once summer growth drops back, the structure of the garden is easier to see. Paths, boundaries, levels, views, drainage problems and awkward spaces become much more obvious.
It is also easier to remember what did and did not work during the year. Which areas were too hot? Where did water sit? Which borders collapsed in late summer? Which parts of the garden were rarely used?
Planning in autumn gives time to solve those questions properly rather than making rushed decisions once spring arrives.
Plan suppliers and winter work
It also gives you a better chance of securing good suppliers. Designers, landscapers, tree surgeons and specialist contractors can book up well in advance, especially for spring and summer work.
Some projects can also begin during the quieter months. Tree work, structural changes, drainage, groundworks and planning applications may all be better dealt with before the main growing season.
Be ready for spring
By the time spring arrives, the aim should be to know what is changing, what it will cost, who is doing it and in what order.
That leaves spring for delivery rather than decision-making.
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