What to Plant in October: The Autumn Garden Checklist for A Spring Bloom

As summer draws to a close and the days begin to shorten, it can be tempting to think that the gardening season is coming to an end. But October is one of the most important months in the gardening calendar. From planting spring-flowering bulbs and refreshing tired containers to preparing plants for the colder months ahead, there is still plenty to do; a little planning now can reward you with a garden full of colour when spring arrives. Whether you have a large garden, a small patio, balcony or simply a few pots by the front door, there are plenty of ways to make the most of the season.

So, what should you actually be planting and doing in October? Here's our autumn gardening checklist to help you make the most of your outdoor space now and prep for a beautiful spring.

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Which Bulbs Are Best?

One of the simplest ways to plan ahead for spring is to plant bulbs during autumn. According to the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS), spring-flowering bulbs including daffodils, crocuses and hyacinths are best planted in early autumn. Tulips have a slightly later planting window and can generally be planted from October into November. Hardy summer-flowering bulbs, including lilies, alliums and crocosmia, can also be planted during October.

When choosing where to plant, consider the conditions each bulb prefers. Many spring bulbs perform best in a sunny or partially shaded position with well-drained soil. Daffodils, for example, can work beautifully in borders, lawns and containers, while tulips are particularly effective when planted in groups for a stronger display. If you're planting bulbs directly into the ground, make sure they are planted at the recommended depth for their variety. As a general guide, the RHS advises planting many bulbs at around three times their own height, although this can vary between types.

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A Spring Refresh For Your Planters

Containers are one of the easiest ways to introduce seasonal colour to a garden. Planting spring bulbs in containers allows you to bring colour to patios, balconies, terraces and front doorways without needing a traditional garden border. Use containers with good drainage and plant bulbs in layers (in terms of soil depth) to create a succession of flowers. Spring bulbs can also be planted beneath other seasonal plants in larger containers, allowing you to enjoy more than one wave of interest from the same pot.

Good drainage becomes particularly important as we move into the wetter months. Excess moisture around plant roots can lead to waterlogging and root problems, so check that drainage holes are clear before planting. It's also worth thinking about where your containers are positioned. Raising pots slightly off the ground using pot feet or suitable supports allows excess water to drain away more easily. If you can, move pots close to your house as the warmth from the house will also help protect your pots from the elements.

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For particularly cold or exposed positions, some containers or beds may also benefit from additional protection. A great idea is using 100% wool fibres to pack-out your plants on top of the soil, allowing protection from the cold - as well as slugs!

It's important to note that autumn shouldn't be treated as a one-size-fits-all job. Some plants benefit from pruning at this time of year, while others are better left until later. Before cutting back established plants or planting new ones, check the specific requirements of the variety you're growing.  A great resource is the Gardeners' World 'monthly garden checklist'.

In conclusion, planting bulbs, refreshing containers and looking after your soil and plants may not produce an immediate transformation, but these small jobs can make a noticeable difference when spring arrives.

Whether you're filling a large border with bulbs, creating a container display for your front door or simply planting a few pots on a balcony, October provides plenty of opportunities to keep growing.