September in the garden: the start of next year
A practical monthly guide for gardens across Surrey, Sussex and Hampshire.
September can be one of the best months in the garden. There is often plenty of warmth left across Surrey, Sussex and Hampshire, but the soil starts holding more moisture and the pressure of midsummer begins to ease.
Plant and divide for next year
That makes it a very good time to plant.
Trees, shrubs and perennials planted in autumn have time to begin establishing roots before winter without having to cope with the heat and dry conditions of summer.
Established perennials that have become too large can be lifted and divided. It is a simple way to refresh an overcrowded border and create extra plants at the same time.
Start with spring bulbs
Spring bulbs can start going in too. Daffodils, crocuses and many other bulbs can be planted during autumn, while tulips are usually better left until later.
Leave some winter structure
Do not be too quick to cut everything down. Seed heads from echinacea, grasses and other plants can look good through autumn and winter while also providing food and shelter for wildlife.
Review how the garden worked
September is a good time to think back over the year.
- Which parts of the garden did you actually use?
- Where was there too much maintenance?
- Which plants struggled?
- Where was shade needed?
- Was there somewhere comfortable to sit at the end of the day?
Those questions are the start of next year's garden.
Autumn is not really the end of the gardening year. In many ways, it is when the next one begins.
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Explore our garden maintenance service for regular care and seasonal tidy-ups.
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