Don't Throw It Yet! 7 Things in Your Garden Worth Saving for Next Year

As summer comes to an end, it can be tempting to clear everything away and start fresh. But before you throw away those old plants, pots and garden leftovers, take another look — you might already have everything you need to get a head start on next year's garden!

Here are 7 things worth saving this autumn.

1. Seeds 

If you have plants you particularly loved this year, collect their seeds and save them for next season. Sunflowers, sweet peas, poppies and many other plants can provide plenty of seeds to collect.

Make sure they are fully dry before storing them somewhere cool and dry, and label everything so you remember what you've saved!

2. Tender plants 

Some plants won't cope well with cold winter temperatures, but that doesn't necessarily mean they're finished for the year.

Tender plants such as pelargoniums, fuchsias and some herbs can sometimes be overwintered in a sheltered, frost-free place. Move them indoors or somewhere protected before temperatures drop too far.

3. Summer bulbs & tubers 

Some tender bulbs and tubers, including dahlias and begonias, can be lifted and stored over winter in suitable conditions rather than replacing them every year.

Allow them to dry properly before storing and keep them somewhere cool, dry and frost-free.

4. Healthy cuttings 

Love a particular plant? You may be able to create new plants from cuttings.

Late summer and early autumn can be a good time to take cuttings from some plants, including lavender, rosemary and fuchsias. It's a brilliant way to create more plants without buying more!

5. Plant labels 

It sounds simple, but don't throw away your labels! Keep them with your seeds, bulbs and stored plants so you know exactly what you've got when spring arrives.

6. Fallen leaves 

Instead of putting every fallen leaf in the bin, collect them and start making leaf mould. It's an excellent soil improver that can be used around the garden once it has broken down.

Just avoid collecting diseased leaves, which are better disposed of separately.

7. Pots & containers 

Before buying new pots next year, give your existing containers a clean and store them somewhere sheltered over winter. Terracotta pots in particular can be vulnerable to frost if they're left outside while full of water.

A little preparation now goes a long way

Saving a few things from this year's garden can make a big difference next spring. Whether it's a packet of seeds, a favourite plant you've managed to overwinter or your own homemade leaf mould, you'll be glad you kept them when the new gardening season begins. 🌱

And sometimes, the most sustainable thing you can do in the garden is simply use what you already have.