As the last leaves fall and frosty mornings arrive, November is a quieter month in the garden — but there’s still plenty to keep you busy. The South East enjoys relatively mild winters, but with the chilly winds rolling in off the coast around Eastbourne, Polegate, Hailsham, Stone Cross, and Pevensey, it’s the perfect time to tidy up, protect your plants, and prepare your garden for the months ahead.

Here’s our guide to the essential gardening jobs to tackle this November.

1. Clear Leaves and Tidy Up

Keep lawns, patios, and paths clear of fallen leaves to prevent them from becoming slippery or smothering the grass. Collect leaves for your compost bin or create a simple leaf mould pile — an excellent soil improver for next year.

If you’d rather not spend your weekends raking, our team can help with garden tidying services across Eastbourne and nearby areas.

2. Protect Tender Plants from Frost

Although Eastbourne’s coastal climate is milder than inland areas, frost can still strike overnight. Protect tender plants with fleece, straw, or cloches, and move delicate pots into a greenhouse or sheltered spot. Wrapping pots in bubble wrap can also prevent roots from freezing.

3. Prune Trees and Shrubs

Now that deciduous trees have dropped their leaves, it’s easier to see their structure. Prune out any dead, diseased, or crossing branches. November is ideal for pruning fruit trees like apples and pears, encouraging healthy growth next year. Avoid pruning spring-flowering shrubs just yet — you might cut off next year’s buds!

If you need help managing larger trees or overgrown hedges, we offer professional pruning and hedge-cutting services across Polegate, Hailsham, and the surrounding villages.

4. Plant Spring Bulbs

There’s still time to plant tulips, daffodils, crocuses, and alliums for a stunning spring display. Tulips, in particular, prefer cooler soil — making November the perfect planting time. Group bulbs in drifts or clusters for a natural effect.

5. Harvest and Prepare the Vegetable Garden

Lift the last of your root vegetables such as parsnips, beetroot, and carrots before the soil becomes too hard. Clear away old stems and weeds, then dig in compost or well-rotted manure to enrich the soil for spring.

If you grow winter greens, check for yellowing leaves and remove them to prevent disease and pest build-up.

6. Clean, Sharpen, and Store Tools

A little care now goes a long way. Clean and oil garden tools to prevent rust, drain hoses, and tidy up your shed before winter. It’s also a great time to check fences and gates for damage after autumn storms — small repairs now can save bigger problems later.

7. Look After Garden Wildlife

Wildlife needs a helping hand as temperatures drop. Top up bird feeders with seed, peanuts, and suet, and make sure fresh water is available. Piles of leaves or logs make great shelters for hedgehogs, so leave a few corners of your garden untouched.

8. Plan Ahead for Next Year

On cold, wet days, take a moment to plan next year’s garden. Think about what worked well this year, what could be improved, and what you’d like to grow next season. Order seeds early and make sure your tools and equipment are in good shape.

Need a Hand in the Garden This November?

If you’d prefer to leave the hard work to the experts, we’re here to help. Our friendly, professional gardening team covers Eastbourne, Polegate, Hailsham, Stone Cross, and Pevensey, offering everything from autumn tidy-ups and pruning to winter garden preparation and maintenance.

Get in touch today to book your November garden visit and keep your outdoor space looking its best all year round.