Monty Don urges gardeners to complete soil task in October before cold months

07 October 2023 , 13:34

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October is the perfect time to dig over your soil before the frosts arrive. (Stock Photo) (Image: Getty Images)

For garden enthusiasts, October isn't a time to slack off. Instead, it's an important month to undergo all the tasks that will keep your beloved plants safe over winter, and prepare your green space for the year ahead. Broadcaster, author and horticulturalist Monty Don, has one crucial tip when it comes to making sure your soil is ready for any new plants you want to grow once you're safely through the cold months to come and Spring has finally arrived: digging.

Doing this now ensures you're both ready to get going as soon as Spring is here and able to replant things now - doing it at this time of year can also promote healthy soil.

Writing on his website, Monty Don explains that you should "Start digging any ground that you want to replant this winter or use next spring. Doing it at this time of year means that it is accessible, dry and there is more daylight to do it in!" The expert explains that once you've dug your soil, you should then "leave the soil in large slabs for the weather to break down over winter."

However, digging ground can be a big and labour-intensive job and it's important not to tire yourself out too much, which could lead to strained muscles and even chronic injury if you're not careful. Don advises that "if this seems daunting do 30 minutes a week in two 15-minute sessions."

Good technique is also crucial when you approach this task: make sure to keep your spade close to your body at all times, which will you the most control over your tool. Always bend from your knees, and try and keep your spine as straight as possible to protect your lower back and minimise the risk of lumbar pain, equally don't lean too far forward.

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Because during October the ground is generally pretty dry still, and the first frosts have yet to arrive, it also should make this a less physically demanding time of year to undertake this work in your garden. According to Gardener's World digging can also promote soil health, by loosening up the earth that has become really compacted during the warmer months and it can also give you an opportunity to pull out any pesky weeds that have taken root.

Do you agree? Let us know in the comments below.

Emma Mackenzie