Get ready for the new growing season

17:34 12th October 2010

Garden and greenhouse owners have been urged to prepare for the new growing season by taking some action in autumn.

DIY Matters said that October, when the leaves start to change colour and fall from trees, is perfect for getting the soil in shape for 2011.

Some patches may require more attention than others, such as those which were used to grow fruit and vegetables, which can starve the earth of certain nutrients.

To help replenish these and boost overall soil quality, growers should dig in copious amounts of well-rotted manure.

It is also important to take care of lawns by raking them to get rid of any fallen leaves and adding fertiliser.

Leaves can then be placed in a perforated bag to provide leaf mould for the growing season, which will help to improve soil quality further.

Meanwhile, the Royal Horticultural Society has said that now is a great time to lay new turf and gave users of its website some tips on doing so.