5 essential tasks to take care of in early Autumn

As you may have noticed already, the weather is getting marginally more unpredictable… and yes, that means winter is well on the way. As the days grow gradually shorter and temperatures begin to cool, early autumn is the perfect time to give your garden and outdoor spaces some much-needed attention. It’s also a great opportunity to check on your garden tools and make sure everything is in top shape for the next growing season. So with that in mind, here are five essential tasks that we’d recommend taking care of in early autumn!

1. Clear fallen leaves

While there’s no denying that scattered autumn leaves might look quite picturesque scattered across your garden, the inconvenient truth is that they’re not that great for your garden. Fallen leaves left on your lawn can smother the grass, blocking sunlight and trapping moisture, which can often lead to fungus and mould growth. Not only does this damage the lawn, but it also creates a breeding ground for pests.

To avoid that, you’ll want to regularly rake or blow leaves off lawns, flowerbeds, and paths, which will help your garden breathe and keep it healthy. It also prevents leaves from clogging gutters and drains, which could cause blockages or water damage. Rather than simply disposing of the collected leaves, it’s worth considering composting them to create a nutrient-rich mulch that you can use in the garden next year. For larger areas, you might want to hire a leaf blower to make the job more manageable.

2. Prune, cut back plants, and trim hedges

Early autumn is the ideal time to prune and tidy up your garden for the colder months ahead. Perennials will need be cut back to encourage healthy regrowth in the spring – while you’re doing it, take care to remove any dead or diseased stems to prevent the spread of disease.

At the same time, don’t forget to trim your hedges, as autumn is your last chance to tidy them up before winter sets in! Overgrown hedges can become weakened by strong winds or heavy snowfall, which may lead to breakage or damage. Giving them a final trim will help maintain their structure and keep them looking neat. Hedge trimming doesn’t just improve aesthetics; it also promotes thicker growth next year. A hedge trimmer can make this task much quicker and ensure you get a clean, even finish.

And of course, if you need the right tools to get the job done, you can always hire a hedge trimmer from us right here at Smiths Hire!

3. Clean and store outdoor furniture

As the weather turns colder and wetter, it’s fair to say you’ll probably get gradually less use out of your outdoor furniture. So then, make sure to clean it thoroughly before storing it away, to prevent long-term damage from dirt, mould, or mildew. Start by scrubbing down chairs, tables, and cushions with warm soapy water, paying particular attention to any areas that may have gathered grime over the summer months.

For wooden furniture, applying a protective sealant can help guard against moisture and frost, reducing the risk of cracks or warping. Metal furniture often benefits from a quick check for rust spots, which should be treated before they spread. Once clean and dry, store your furniture in a shed or garage if possible, to keep it safe from the elements.

If you don’t have space for indoor storage, a good alternative is to get hold of waterproof furniture covers. These provide essential protection from rain, frost, and snow, ensuring that your furniture will be ready for use when warmer weather (eventually!) returns.

4. Scarify your lawn

We know, it might sound like a job for closer to Halloween – but it actually just means to remove a debris from your lawn, which is crucial for maintaining its health and appearance. Over time, lawns can develop a layer of thatch—a build-up of dead grass, roots, and other organic matter. Much like the dead leaves we covered above, this layer can prevent water and nutrients from reaching the soil, leading to a weaker lawn that’s more susceptible to disease and pests.

Use a scarifier or lawn dethatcher to remove this thatch layer and improve the overall condition of your lawn. Scarifying not only helps to enhance the penetration of water and nutrients but also encourages stronger, healthier grass growth. It’s particularly important after a dry summer or if your lawn has become compacted. If you don’t have the right equipment, you can find plenty of options for lawn scarifier hire right here on our site!

After scarifying, consider overseeding the lawn to help fill in any bare patches and promote thicker growth. Applying a fertiliser suited for autumn will also support the lawn as it prepares for the winter months. All that should set up your garden for a vigorous start come spring.

5. Maintain your garden tools

OK, so this is quite an important one, but it’s surprising how many people often overlook it! As autumn rolls in, it’s an excellent time to give your garden tools the attention they deserve. Throughout the year, dirt and moisture can build up on tools, leading to rust or a reduction in performance. To avoid that, you’ll need to clean your tools thoroughly after each use to prolong their lifespan and keep them functioning efficiently. Scrub off any dirt or debris, and make sure to dry them well before storage.

For tools with blades, such as shears or secateurs, so blunt blades make garden tasks harder and can damage plants. Sharpening them will keep them in prime condition. Lawn mower blades should also be sharpened to ensure a clean cut when mowing. Finally, apply oil to any moving parts to prevent rust and ensure smooth operation.

Once your tools are clean and sharpened, it can always be annoying to have your hard work undone by the harsher elements of winter. Happily, you can avoid that by storing them in a dry, sheltered area, such as a shed or garage, to protect them from dampness and rust. If any tools are damaged or worn beyond repair, consider replacing them now rather than waiting until spring when they’re needed most. Proper tool maintenance not only saves you time and money in the long run, but it also ensures that your equipment is ready to go when spring arrives.

If one of your tools isn’t up to the job, and you need a replacement fairly urgently, we’ve got a comprehensive range of gardening tool hire options here at Smiths Hire. With around 50 years of experience, we’re the go-to destination for quality equipment and tool hire for both DIY enthusiasts and tradespeople. Our 17 depots are strategically located in the North West and Yorkshire, including major cities like Manchester, Liverpool, and Leeds. For any assistance, our friendly team is just a call away at 0333 323 2100. We’re here to help!