Grow Your Own - November Jobs

November is the perfect time to get your garden into shape and reap the rewards of all the hard work you put in during the summer months. From planting garlic and preparing beds for spring, to harvesting leeks and brussels sprouts, here are some of the top November jobs for those wanting to Grow their Own.

What to Sow & Plant in November
Now that November is here, it's time to start thinking about what you can sow and plant in your garden. While the colder weather may make it feel like the growing season is over, there are still plenty of crops that can be sown and planted in November to ensure a bountiful harvest in the months to come.

When it comes to fruit, November is the perfect time to buy and plant new fruit trees and bushes. Just make sure to avoid planting them if the ground is frosted or too wet. This will give them a chance to establish their roots before the colder temperatures set in.

For vegetables, consider sowing overwintering broad beans in mild areas. You can sow them outside or under cloches in well-drained soil, or in pots in an unheated greenhouse in colder districts. Another option is to dig up chicory roots and pot them up for forcing. Place them in a dark, warm place and within a few weeks, you'll have tasty chicons to enjoy.

Lastly, don't forget to plant garlic cloves. You can either plant them in modules inside a cold frame or outdoors in mild areas with free-draining soil. This will ensure that your garlic has plenty of time to establish itself before the winter months.

So, don't let the colder weather deter you from sowing and planting. Take advantage of November's opportunities to grow and enjoy a variety of delicious crops in your own backyard.

What is ready to harvest in November
Now that November is here, it's time to reap the rewards of all your hard work in the garden. Despite the colder temperatures, there are still plenty of crops that are ready to harvest in November in the UK. Here's a list of fruits and vegetables that you can enjoy fresh from your garden this month:

• Apples: November is the perfect time to harvest your apples. Whether you have cooking apples or eating apples, they should be ready to pick and enjoy.
• Leeks: These tasty and versatile vegetables are at their best in November. Harvest them when the stems are nice and thick.
• Carrots: Carrots are a staple in any garden, and they can be harvested throughout the winter months. Just make sure to cover them with mulch or straw to protect them from the frost.
• Cauliflowers: November is a great time to harvest your cauliflowers. They should be nice and firm, with a creamy white head.
• Beetroot: This earthy vegetable is ready to harvest in November. Look for beets that are around the size of a golf ball, and give them a gentle tug to check if they're ready.
• Turnips and swedes: These root vegetables are perfect for hearty winter stews and soups. Harvest them when they're about the size of a tennis ball.
• Parsnips: November is the best time to dig up your parsnips. These sweet and nutty vegetables are at their tastiest after a few good frosts.
• Brussels sprouts: It wouldn't be November without a harvest of Brussels sprouts. Pick them when they're firm and about the size of a golf ball.
• Jerusalem artichokes: These knobbly tubers are a delicious addition to winter meals. Harvest them when the leaves have died back and the ground is not too frozen.
• Winter cabbage: Harvest your winter cabbage in November for a fresh and nutritious addition to your meals.
• Spinach and Swiss chard: These leafy greens can be harvested throughout the winter months. Just pick the outer leaves and leave the center intact for continued growth.
• Kohl rabi: Harvest these strange-looking vegetables when they're about the size of a tennis ball.
• Radishes: These quick-growing vegetables are ready to harvest in November. Look for firm, crisp radishes that are about the size of a golf ball.

Plants to Prune and Train in November
Pruning and training your plants in November is a crucial step in maintaining their health and productivity. In this month, it's time to focus on fruit trees and bushes. Start by thinning out congested spurs on trained fruit trees to improve air circulation and prevent disease. This will also help to ensure that the remaining fruits have enough space to grow and ripen properly.

For espaliers, tie in new tiers to create a structured and aesthetically pleasing shape. This will not only enhance the visual appeal of your garden but also help to maximize fruit production in the coming years.

When it comes to apples, pears, quinces, red currants, white currants, and gooseberries, it's time to prune. Remove any dead or diseased branches and cut back overgrown or crossed branches to encourage better growth and fruiting.
Remember to use sharp and clean pruning tools to make precise cuts and reduce the risk of disease transmission. Always follow proper pruning techniques and consult specific guides for each type of fruit plant to ensure optimal results.
By investing a little time and effort in pruning and training your plants in November, you'll set them up for success in the next growing season. So grab your pruning shears, get out into the garden, and give your plants the attention they deserve.

Garden Problems, Pests & Diseases in November
Garden Problems, Pests & Diseases in November can present challenges, but with a little proactive care, you can keep your garden thriving. Protect your new sowings and crops from pesky mice by using wire mesh or traps. Pesky pigeons love to feast on brassicas, so use cloches, netting, or fleece to keep them at bay. Remove any yellowed leaves on your Brussels sprouts and other brassicas to prevent the development of grey mold and brassica downy mildew. As you clean up your vegetable plot, be sure to dispose of any diseased plant debris to

prevent the spread of disease. Don't forget to address rodent damage on any stored fruits and nuts and remove any rotten stored fruit. If you notice apple and pear canker or bitter pit in stored apples, take steps to treat these conditions. By staying vigilant and addressing any issues promptly, you can keep your garden healthy and thriving throughout November.

General care
General care in November is crucial to ensure the health and success of your garden. When it comes to vegetables, parsnips can be left in the ground until needed, but it's a good idea to bury them in a shallow trench for easy access. They actually taste better after being frosted! Celeriac, on the other hand, should be protected from the cold with a thick layer of mulch. If your Brussels sprouts stalks look leggy and vulnerable to wind, stake them for added support.

In terms of general maintenance, clean and store bamboo canes to keep them in good condition for next year. Dig over any vacant areas of the vegetable plot, incorporating well-rotted organic matter if available. This will help enrich the soil for future planting. Additionally, now is the perfect time to prepare new asparagus beds for planting in the spring.

To stay ahead and plan for next year's garden, be sure to order seed catalogues. This will allow you to browse and choose the varieties you want to grow. By taking care of these general maintenance tasks, you'll set your garden up for success and be well-prepared for the coming growing season.

Preparing for frosts and cold weather

As the temperatures drop and the frost starts to settle, it's important to take some steps to prepare your garden for the winter weather. Preparing for frosts and cold weather can help protect your plants and ensure they have the best chance of survival throughout the winter months.

One of the first things you can do to prepare for frosts is to mulch your beds. Applying a layer of organic mulch, such as straw or wood chips, around your plants can help insulate the soil and protect the roots from freezing temperatures. This extra layer of insulation can also help retain moisture in the soil, preventing it from drying out in the cold winter air.

It's also a good idea to protect any vulnerable plants by covering them with fleece or plant covers. These protective layers can shield delicate plants from the harsh effects of frost and freezing temperatures. Additionally, consider investing in cloches or cold frames to create a mini greenhouse effect, providing an extra layer of warmth and protection for your plants.

Don't forget about your containers and potted plants. Move any frost-sensitive pots indoors or to a sheltered area, such as a greenhouse or garage. If this isn't possible, wrap the pots with bubble wrap or burlap to insulate them and prevent the roots from freezing.

Finally, make sure to drain and store any garden hoses or irrigation systems to prevent them from freezing and causing damage. Empty and clean out any outdoor water features to avoid cracking in the freezing temperatures.

By taking these steps to prepare for frosts and cold weather, you can help protect your garden and give your plants the best chance of survival throughout the winter. So bundle up, grab your mulch and fleece, and get ready to give your garden the care it needs during the cold months ahead.

Planning for next year's garden and ordering seeds.
Now that you've taken care of the November tasks in your garden, it's time to start thinking ahead and planning for next year. While winter may be just beginning, it's never too early to start envisioning your dream garden and preparing for the upcoming growing season.

One important aspect of planning for next year's garden is ordering your seeds. Take some time to research different varieties and determine what you want to grow in the upcoming year. Whether it's vibrant flowers, delicious vegetables, or fragrant herbs, there are countless options to choose from. Look for reputable seed companies that offer a wide selection and ensure that the seeds are of high quality.

When ordering your seeds, consider factors such as the specific requirements of each plant, your climate, and the available space in your garden. Think about any lessons you learned from the previous growing season and make adjustments accordingly. It's also a good idea to create a planting schedule or calendar to keep track of when to start seeds indoors and when to transplant them outside.

In addition to ordering seeds, now is the perfect time to start sketching out your garden layout. Consider factors such as sun exposure, soil quality, and companion planting to optimize the success of your plants. Visualize where each plant will go and how they will interact with one another. This will help you make the most of your available space and create a harmonious and productive garden.