November - Winter is Coming!

• It is important to gather up leaves regularly - Fallen leaves will smother lawns and small plants and will become a dangerous slip hazard on paths

• Collect leaves into their own bag or leaf bin and leave for about a year to decompose into beautiful leaf mould

• Cold nights and frosts will be making an appearance this month so this the last chance to protect any tender perennials by moving or mulching

• Plant out any last remaining winter bedding

• It is also the time to plant tulips - these are often quite short lived and can do better in pots or tubs. Pots are also easier to move to a different location after flowering to allow the leaves to die down naturally

• Tidy perennial grasses and bamboos and continue to clear the top stems of faded perennials where appropriate

• Lightly prune roses to reduce root damage by wind-rock

• Wind-rock, where roots break and the plant gets pulled out the ground over the winter months, is also a problem for many taller sedums (Hylotelephium) so it’s worth trimming the stems down to about 20 cm now, and then to the base in the Spring once new growth appears

• Bare rooted roses, shrubs and hedging can also be planted now through to end of February

• Stop watering any succulents or cacti - with the light levels being very low, the plants will not be growing and will not need regular watering

• The last of the Autumn colour-show at Winkworth Arboretum. Pre-booking of tickets and timeslots strongly recommended, from the National Trust ticket site.

• The SHF Quiz and AGM will take place on Sunday 7^th November at 2.30pm in Normandy Village Hall. Why not come along and support our team?

• The lights at RHS Wisley return again this year with Glow 2021. The gardens will be open and illuminated from 4pm to 9pm from 19th November 2021 to 4th January 2022. Booking is essential.

• See what's happening at other local clubs via the Surrey Horticultural Federation web site