After sunny but cold weather at the Weekend, Autumn feels like it is well on its way with the leaves starting to look golden, and if you have a garden, then work you undertake over the next few weeks will not only ensure that it is kept looking neat for the winter months, but also gives you a head start for next Spring. 

Here are some areas to tackle in the garden this Autumn:-   

• Clear up Autumn leaves, however a few piles of leaves in ‘out-of-the way-places’ can provide shelter for wildlife  
• Tidy borders – after removing dying leaves or collapsed stems from herbaceous perennials either by hand or using secateurs, leave any stems for birds to feed off 

• Remove weeds and spread well- rotted manure over the soil to insulate plant roots 
• Clear away old crops before they start to rot and become host to pests 
• Clear out compost bins – if it isn’t quite ready , turn it to improve decomposition 
• Plant evergreens – these will provide structure and interest during the drab winter months 
• Leave your lawn looking  trim, edge and cut the lawn and then mow for one final time – set your mower blades to higher than usual to leave the grass slightly longer over winter 

• Put away plant supports – cut away dead stems and foliage from their supports 
• Make repairs – repair damage to raised beds, sheds ad compost bins and plant them with wood preservative 
• Replace any rotting fence posts so that they don’t get blown down in the harsh winter weather 
• Remove everything from your greenhouse, sweep out plant debris and disinfect all paths 
• Ensure shed roofs don’t leak and repair any broken panes in the greenhouse 

• Clean out nest boxes and feeders – old nesting material and debris may carry disease so wash out the boxes with hot water before putting them back 
• Clean out feeders and birdbaths and remember to regularly top them up 
• Sort out your pond and add netting – scoop out any leaves before they sink down and start to rot 

By following these simple tips, you can enjoy your garden throughout the winter months especially in Bramhope which boasts homes with beautiful gardens too – take a look at our website, and if you are considering selling your home in North Leeds, call David Phillip Estate Agents for a free market appraisal t: 01134 676 400 w: davidphillip.co.uk a: 86, Leeds Road, Leeds. 

Covering Bramhope, Adel, Cookridge, Pool-in-Wharfedale, Alwoodley and Otley