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November brings to mind fallen leaves and bonfires, although it is probably more useful as far as the garden is concerned to make the leaves into compost. It also sees the beginning of the winter digging, and I well remember working in a large walled kitchen garden and having a double dig or trench for various crops - that really was a backbreaking task. There is very little of this done these days, and I am of the opinion that is sufficient if the soil is well turned over to the depth of the spade. But unless one is accustomed to digging, it can be hard work and should be done a little at a time. If the garden soil is inclined to be of a heavy nature then it is essential for it to be dug over and left in large lumps to expose as much of it as possible to the beneficial effects of the weather. As you dig, remove the roots of any perennial weeds. Before doing any digging it is advisable to have a plan in mind or on paper, of where you intend to sow or plant the various crops next spring. If this is not done you may well be digging in manure or garden compost in those areas where parsnips, carrots and other root crops are to be grown. With our minds turning unavoidably to winter and the cold weather it is advisable to think about putting some form of protection around any newly planted conifers, otherwise the tips of the branches may turn brown. A screen made of old sacks firmly secured to stakes on the windward side of the plant will give protection from strong winds. Sharp frost may also be a problem, and to give protection form these polythene sheeting can be wrapped around the plant of a large polythene bag can be put right over the plant and secured around the stem. This may be left in place for most of the winter without the plant inside coming to any harm. During the first winter, strong winds and frosts may loosen any newly planted shrubs as these will not have rooted into the soil. I make a point of going round the garden at regular intervals to check and firm them if necessary. |