Complete Guide to Autumn Garden Preparation

1. Garden Assessment

Begin by evaluating your garden. Look for signs of pests or diseases that are more prevalent in coastal climates. This evaluation is also an opportunity to plan any changes in your garden’s layout or to introduce new, more suitable plant varieties.

2. Selecting the Right Plants

The milder coastal climate allows for a variety of autumn plantings. Consider plants that thrive in sandy soils and can withstand salty air and winds. Some ideal choices include:

Sea Thrift and Beach Grass: Excellent for their salt tolerance.
Hardy Bulbs: Such as daffodils, which can adapt well to sandy soils.
Native Shrubs: Like bayberry and beach plum, which are accustomed to the local climate.

3. Soil Preparation

Coastal areas often have sandy soil, which drains quickly but may need additional nutrients. Remove weeds and add compost or a balanced fertilizer to enrich the soil. Testing your soil’s pH is also beneficial, as sandy soils can be more acidic.

4. Mulching for Protection

A good layer of organic mulch is crucial in these areas. It protects plant roots from temperature fluctuations and helps retain moisture, a necessity in sandy soil conditions.

5. Lawn Care in Coastal Regions

Aerate your lawn during the autumn and apply a winter fertilizer formulated for sandy soils. This encourages deep root growth, preparing your lawn for the colder months.

6. Hardscape Maintenance

In coastal gardens, hardscapes can suffer from salt and wind damage. Clean and repair patios, decks, and pathways. Applying a protective sealant can help guard against the harsh winter elements.

7. Pruning for Health and Safety

Prune trees and shrubs in late autumn, focusing on removing any dead or damaged branches. This not only promotes healthy growth but also reduces the risk of wind damage.

8. Regular Watering

Despite the cooler temperatures, plants in coastal areas still need regular watering, especially new plantings, until the ground freezes.

9. Wind Protection

Consider installing windbreaks or using burlap screens to protect sensitive plants from strong coastal winds.

10. Garden Tools Care

Clean and maintain your gardening tools at the end of the season. Proper maintenance ensures they are in good condition for the next gardening season.

By tailoring these autumn garden preparation steps to the needs of a coastal garden, you can ensure that your garden remains healthy and beautiful throughout the winter and is ready to flourish in the spring. Happy gardening!