
Actaea simplex ‘Black Negligee’
October marks a slower pace in the garden as growth begins to taper off, and many plants start to die back. It's a time to appreciate the beauty in the fading blooms and prepare for the colder months ahead. However, there's still plenty to do, from planting new blooms and vegetables to essential tree care. Here's how to make the most of your garden in October.
What to Plant for October Blooms
To keep color in your garden through autumn, plant Symphyotrichum novi-belgii ‘Patricia Ballard’, a mildew-resistant Michaelmas daisy with bright pink blooms. Anemone hupehensis ‘Hadspen Abundance’ offers rich pink flowers well into autumn, and Actaea simplex ‘Black Negligee’ adds drama with its dark, elegant spires.
For ground cover, Liriope muscari ‘Okina’ provides year-round interest, while Salvia ‘Love and Wishes’ continues to bloom until the first frost with its striking magenta flowers.

Liriope muscari ‘Okina’
Native Irish Plants to Add in October
October is the perfect time to plant native Irish species that will thrive in your garden. Consider Hedera helix (Irish ivy) for climbers, Primula vulgaris (primrose) for early spring blooms, and Digitalis purpurea (foxglove) to attract pollinators. Native trees like Crataegus monogyna (hawthorn) and Sorbus aucuparia (rowan) provide food for wildlife, while Betula pubescens (downy birch) adds elegance to any landscape.

Sorbus aucuparia
Vegetables to Plant in October
October is an ideal time to plant hardy vegetables for winter and early spring harvests. Sow garlic and broad beans now for a head start. Winter lettuces, spinach, kale, and spring onions will grow well through the colder months. Cabbages are also a great choice, offering crops through winter into early spring.

Winter lettuces
Tree Pruning and Expert Advice
October is also the time for essential tree pruning. Prune roses and climbing roses, reducing their size by a third to prevent wind damage. It's also the perfect season to prune deciduous trees, as they enter dormancy. This helps remove any dead or damaged branches, improving the overall health and structure of the tree.
For larger trees or expert care, Heritage Tree Care Ltd. provides professional tree surgery services across Cork and Kerry. Whether it's pruning, tree felling, or providing free advice, our team is here to help ensure your trees stay healthy and well-maintained. Get in touch for expert advice on the best tree care practices this season.
Other Essential October Garden Tasks
Divide overgrown perennials like Phlomis russeliana and Cephalaria gigantea.
Harvest apples, pears, and nuts.
Plant early spring bulbs like narcissi, crocuses, and fritillaries.
Sow green manures in your vegetable beds to enrich the soil for spring.
Spread mulch after clearing borders to protect tender plants and improve soil.
By taking care of these tasks now, you'll prepare your garden for winter and set it up for success come spring. Whether you're planting, pruning, or tidying up, October offers plenty of opportunities to enhance your garden’s beauty and productivity.

Fritillaria
留言