Other Jobs Around The Garden and Patio This October

October is a perfect time to get your whole garden and patio area cleaned up, protected, and prepared for the colder months ahead. Beyond tending to veg, fruit, flowers, lawns, and greenhouses, there are plenty of other essential jobs around the garden and patio that will save time and effort later.

🧹 Tidy Patios, Paths & Decking 

• Sweep leaves regularly – wet leaves become slippery and can cause staining or rot.
• Pressure wash patios and decking to remove algae and moss.
• Apply anti-slip treatments or decking oil before winter.

🪵 Wooden decking? – Treat with a preservative to protect against damp and frost. 

🍂 Collect and Compost Fallen Leaves 

Rake up leaves and: 

• Add to compost heap (mix with grass clippings or cardboard).
• Bag up to make leaf mould (takes a year but great for soil).
• Keep paths and driveways clear of leaves for safety.

🌧️ Clean & Check Gutters and Water Butts 

• Clear gutters and downpipes of leaves and moss.
• Make sure water butts are clean and fitted with tight lids to prevent algae and mosquito breeding.
• Check connections to downpipes are secure.

🪴 Look After Containers and Pots 

• Move tender container plants (e.g. agapanthus, olives, citrus) into shelter or greenhouse.
• Raise pots off the ground using pot feet to:
• Prevent waterlogging
• Stop frost damage
• Empty and clean summer containers; store pots if not in use.

🛠️ Tool & Furniture Maintenance 

• Clean, sharpen, and oil garden tools before storing.
• Protect or store garden furniture:
• Clean thoroughly
• Cover or move indoors (especially wooden or soft furnishings)

🧽 Tip: Use a mild detergent or vinegar solution to clean outdoor furniture. 

🐦 Help Wildlife & Birds 

• Clean bird feeders, bird baths, and nest boxes.
• Start regular bird feeding (high-energy foods like fat balls, sunflower seeds).
• Leave some seed heads and piles of leaves/twigs for shelter and food.

🌱 Prepare New Beds or Borders 

• Clear any weedy or unused areas.
• Add well-rotted manure or compost to enrich soil.
• Cover with cardboard or mulch to suppress weeds and let worms do the work over winter.

🪚 Stack and Store Firewood 

• Cut and stack dry firewood in a sheltered area with good air circulation.
• Keep it off the ground to prevent damp and rot.

💡 Lighting and Safety Checks 

• Check garden lighting and path illumination ahead of shorter days.
• Replace any blown bulbs or faulty solar units.
• Clear overhanging branches or obstacles from walkways.