Preparing the Garden for Autumn
A Q&A with Daisy Payne
As we move through September, it seems the world around us has quickly bid farewell to the summer season and embraced the cool breeze, crisp leaves and cosy drizzle of autumn. This time of year is so dear to us, as the natural world showcases some of its most beautiful shades and we pick out our favourite transitional pieces.
This autumn, we thought there was no better way to ease into the ‘ber months’ than to sit down with the lovely Daisy Payne to discuss how she’s prepping her garden for the season ahead, with the help of her brand-new book Start Growing – the perfect introduction to gardening for any beginner.
Hope & Ivy: Hi Daisy, thanks so much for taking the time to speak to us! You’ve had such an exciting time recently with the release of your book Start Growing. Can you tell us a little about your journey creating the book and what you hope readers will learn from it?
Daisy: I found when I was starting out in the garden, that it was hard to find the absolute basics of gardening. There is a lot of assumed knowledge out there, so my new book is just the thing for people who have never been into gardening or are just starting out. It’s focused on the basics, in the hope that it encourages more people to start their gardening journey - like I have - and reap the benefits of it. More green time, less screen time! If you’ve never been that into gardening, give it a whirl - with little projects that take 5-10 minutes. Whatever your budget, Start Growing offers a wonderful way to connect to nature and unwind a bit. Part of the fun of gardening is learning when you get stuff wrong too - no garden is perfect, so don’t put any pressure on yourself and just enjoy it.
Hope & Ivy: What would be your top tip for gardeners who are just starting out on their green fingered journey?
Daisy: Honestly? You don’t need to buy lots of equipment or spend lots of money. The reality is you can do a lot with not a lot! The tools you need to get started depend on the space you have. If you have a balcony garden that is likely to consist mostly of pots, for example, then you might not need any tools at all. If you have a bigger space, you’ll likely find a spade, fork, trowel and an edger helpful. A watering can is useful too. But most importantly, you just need to get stuck in and enjoy the time outside. Soon you’ll find you get slightly addicted to weekends spent at the garden centre! As your confidence and knowledge grows, you’ll take on more and more. It’s a lovely journey!
Hope & Ivy: How would you suggest getting your garden in order to prepare for the winter months?
Daisy: My top tip would be to have a tidy up and get rid of any clutter and things you no longer need or use, so that in spring you have the space to enjoy the garden and plant even more! I’d also recommend mulching your plants, so that they are in good shape over the colder months.
Hope & Ivy: What’s your favourite thing about the arrival of autumn in your garden?
Daisy: There is no greater feeling than walking through autumnal leaves.
Hope & Ivy: What are your 5 ‘must-do’ autumn gardening tasks?
Daisy: Tidying borders and pots - I love a good sort out and it’s the perfect autumn ritual. Cleaning your pots that have been filled with bedding is also a good way to close out the season too. My other must dos are mulching - to prepare your beds for the colder months, planting bulbs such as daffodils and tulips ready for spring; and adding late colour through autumn bedding plants. It keeps your outside space bright as the colours fade.
Hope & Ivy: What would you suggest for those who have limited or no outdoor space?
Daisy: If you have a windowsill that’s all you ever really need! So, whether you fancy growing herbs or have some houseplants, you can get started. No excuses!
Hope & Ivy: We were lucky enough to have you model our last collaboration with The William Morris Society, so it’s great to see you’re a fan of this new collection. What is it that you particularly like about these pieces?
Daisy: The patterns and prints are so beautiful, it’s hard not to be utterly in love with William Morris, so this is the ultimate transitional collection if you love your florals and timeless looks. They are perfect for autumn with their stunning tones!
