November tasks to discourage weed growth

Brush up debris from the edges of paths and hardstanding. Weeds can be very opportunistic and even a little compost is enough to germinate their seeds.  (The image of wall barley above demonstrates this point).

Where you have borders of well-established and deeper rooted plants, mulch with well-rotted leaf mould or bark chippings. Any mulch will help to block light to weed seeds, but both of these mulches are especially helpful to reduce weed growth.  They are low in nitrogen, and high in carbon, and the microorganisms that break them down will need to use some nitrogen from the soil to do it. High-nitrogen content in the surface layer of soil promotes prolific weed growth, so this is a helpful thing as long as your desired plants can get the nitrogen they need from lower down in the soil.

Whilst we’re talking about it – now is a great time to start making leaf mould from all those deciduous leaves that are still falling. Create a leaf bin from chicken wire and stakes, fill it up, and keep it moist. It takes about two years to compost down, depending on the specific leaves. (Horse chestnut, for example, takes longer than birch).

As you cut down herbaceous borders for the winter, check for and remove perennial weeds that may have previously been hidden amongst the summer foliage. Keep these removed weeds out of the compost heap.

Now that many veg beds will be empty – consider taking a no-dig approach for the next season. Soil disturbance by digging brings weed seeds up to the surface where they can germinate. Start by covering the surface with overlapping sheets of plain scrap cardboard, and a layer of compost. You can start planting immediately with things like garlic bulbs suitable for autumn planting.

Avoid trampling on wetter soil as much as you can as this can result in compaction. Not only does this lead to poor drainage which is bad for your plants, but some weeds absolutely love and thrive in it. (Dock – we’re looking at you). Where access is needed, planks can help to distribute weight across the surface of an area.