As the weather cools and daylight hours shorten, autumn is the ideal time to get your vegetable plot in order and prepare it for the colder months ahead. A little effort now means healthier soil, fewer pests, and a smoother start when spring rolls back around.

Here are a few simple, practical checklists to help you tackle your autumn prep and early winter planning plus a few trusted Spear & Jackson tools to make the work easier!

1. Clear Away Spent Crops and Weeds

Start by removing any plants that have finished cropping. Old or decaying plants can harbour disease and pests, so clear them before they become a problem. Add healthy green waste to the compost heap, and dispose of anything that looks diseased.

Recommended Tool:
Spear & Jackson Stainless Steel Digging Fork ideal for lifting root crops, turning the soil, and aerating beds without compacting them. The polished stainless steel head resists rust and glides easily through soil, making end-of-season jobs quicker and cleaner.

2. Cut Back and Compost

Trim back herbs, cut down perennial plants that have died back, and tidy up soft fruit runners. Chop larger waste into smaller pieces before composting to speed up decomposition over winter.

Recommended Tool:
Spear & Jackson Razorsharp Advance Bypass Secateurs perfect for clean, precise cuts on stems and branches, helping reduce damage and prevent disease. Comfortable for prolonged pruning sessions as you tidy the plot.

3. Feed and Protect Your Soil

Once beds are clear, dig in a layer of compost, manure, or organic matter. This boosts nutrients and improves soil structure before winter sets in. Then cover your soil with mulch, straw, or black sheeting to keep out weeds and protect it from heavy rain and frost.

Recommended Tool:
Spear & Jackson Stainless Steel Soil Rake great for spreading compost evenly, breaking up clods, and creating a smooth surface ready for mulch or covers. 

4. Clean, Sharpen, and Store Your Tools

Autumn is also the time to give your tools some care before storage. Wipe off mud, oil the metal, and sharpen edges so they’re ready for next year. Clean tools last longer and perform better, saving you time and money in the long run.

Recommended Tool:
– ideal for keeping your spades, hoes, and shears in top condition. Pair with a light oil for a complete winter maintenance routine.

5. Plan Next Season’s Layout

With your plot tidy and the soil protected, take time to plan for the year ahead. Rotate crops, note what grew well (and what didn’t), and order early seed varieties. Planning now helps you start strong when spring arrives with a clear vision for your growing space.