November in the Garden

November brings a quieter rhythm. The garden begins to rest, the mornings are cold and still, and the air feels crisp with the promise of winter. It’s a month for protecting, planning, and appreciating the structure of the garden as leaves fall and the landscape softens.

The last of autumn’s glow lingers it’s time to slow down and plan for the year ahead.

What to Do in the Garden in November

• Plant tulip bulbs – This is the perfect month to plant tulips now the soil is cool, helping to prevent tulip blight.

• Move tender plants indoors – Protect half-hardy perennials and pelargoniums before the frosts arrive.

• Keep sowing hardy annuals --- I've been sowing scented stocks and lisianthus, next I will start cornflower, nigella and astrantia.

• Rake and compost fallen leaves – Collect leaves for leaf mould or use them to insulate plants.

• Sow onions and plant garlic – These will overwinter and get a strong start for spring.

• Prune fruit trees and bushes – Apple and pear trees can be pruned now to maintain shape and encourage new growth.

• Clean and store tools – Give everything a good clean and oil before winter, ready for the new season.

• Keep sowing herbs indoors – Parsley, coriander, and chives can still be grown on a sunny windowsill.

What Can Be Harvested

• Vegetables

  • Leeks, parsnips, pumpkin, squash and carrots

  • Kale, cabbage, and Brussels sprouts

  • Late beetroot and winter radish

    
    

• Fruits

  • Apples and pears

  • Quinces and medlars

  • Rosehips for syrups and teas

    
    

• Herbs

  • Sage, thyme, rosemary, and bay

Final Thoughts

November is the month where the garden exhales. The pace slows, the light softens, and there’s time to pause. It’s a gentle reminder that rest is part of the rhythm, both for the garden and for us. As we tidy, plant, and prepare, we’re quietly laying the foundations for another year of growth.

All my love, love from Donna 🌷