Getting Your Garden Ready for Manchester’s Wet Winter

At Epic Landscaping, we know Manchester’s winters are often wet, windy, and unpredictable. Preparing your garden for the colder months is essential if you want your outdoor space to thrive come spring. With a few simple steps, you can protect your plants, decking, and overall garden design from the worst of the weather.

Why Winter Prep Matters

Manchester winters bring plenty of rain, which can leave gardens waterlogged, decking slippery, and soil compacted. Without proper preparation, plants may suffer root rot, lawns can become patchy, and outdoor features may deteriorate. The good news? A little care now goes a long way in keeping your garden healthy and inviting.

Epic Landscaping’s Top Tips for Winter Garden Prep

1. Protect Your Lawn

* Aerate your lawn to improve drainage and prevent water logging.

* Keep grass at a medium length - too short and it weakens, too long and it invites disease.

* If bare patches appear, over-seed before the ground gets too cold.

2. Care for Your Plants

* Move potted plants to sheltered areas or raise them on pot feet to stop waterlogging.

* Use mulch around borders to protect roots from frost and lock in nutrients.

* Prune dead or weak branches to prevent wind damage.

3. Look After Decking & Hard Surfaces

* Clean timber or composite decking to remove algae and moss, reducing slipperiness.

* Apply a protective sealant to timber decking to extend its lifespan.

* Check patios and pathways for drainage issues to avoid puddling.

4. Prepare Water Features & Garden Structures

* Empty or cover small water features to prevent frost damage.

* Secure fences, trellises, and pergolas against strong winds.

* Store garden furniture in a dry place or cover it with waterproof materials.

5. Plan Ahead for Spring

* Plant spring bulbs like daffodils, tulips, and crocuses before the first frost.

* Sketch out ideas for bigger projects – from decking upgrades to full garden redesigns – so you’re ready to go when warmer weather arrives.

Final Thoughts

A little winter preparation makes all the difference. By protecting your lawn, plants, and garden structures, you’ll not only prevent damage but also create a healthier, more vibrant space to enjoy once spring returns. At Epic Landscaping, we’re here to help Manchester homeowners get the most out of their gardens year-round. Whether you need decking maintenance, planting advice, or a complete garden makeover, our team is just a call away.

A wintery day in Manchester