In The Flower Graden This November

Here are the top flower garden tips for November, when autumn gives way to early winter and most plants are going dormant — but there’s still plenty to do to protect, prepare, and plan:

🌸 Planting & Planning 

1 . Plant spring bulbs: 

• You can still plant tulips in November — in fact, they prefer being planted now to reduce the risk of fungal disease (like tulip fire).
• If the soil isn’t waterlogged, you can also plant daffodils, crocuses, and alliums, though earlier is better.

2. Move tender plants under cover 

• Bring dahlias, cannas, and pelargoniums (geraniums) into a frost-free greenhouse or shed.
• Lift and store dahlia tubers in dry compost or newspaper once foliage has blackened from frost.

3. Plant bare-root roses and shrubs 

• November is the ideal time to plant bare-root roses, peonies, and deciduous shrubs while the soil is still workable and moist.

🍂 Tidying & Protection 

4. Cut back perennials 

• Trim spent herbaceous perennials like asters, rudbeckias, and hostas to a few inches above ground, unless you want to leave seed heads for wildlife and structure.

5. Mulch and protect 

• Apply a layer of organic mulch (compost, bark, or leaf mould) around tender perennials and newly planted bulbs to insulate roots.
• Wrap pots and containers in bubble wrap or fleece to protect them from frost.

6. Rake up fallen leaves 

• Keep leaves off lawns and beds to prevent rot and fungal issues, but compost them or make leaf mould — a great soil improver for next year.

🌿 Maintenance & Wildlife 

7. Check drainage 

• Winter wet is worse than cold for many plants. Ensure pots and beds have good drainage; raise containers on pot feet. 

8. Support garden wildlife 

• Leave seed heads (like echinacea or teasel) for birds.
• Pile some leaves or logs in a quiet corner to create a hibernation spot for hedgehogs and insects.

9. Clean and sharpen tools 

• Wash pots, clean greenhouse glass, and oil your tools now — you’ll thank yourself in spring. 

🌱 Planning Ahead 

10. Design and plan for next year 

• Note what worked well this year and what didn’t. Sketch ideas for new borders, colour schemes, or plant combinations.