November in the Garden
November is quieter above ground, with low light, frequent rain and increasingly cold nights. Many borders are fading, but dormant plants and bare soil make the structure of the garden easier to see. It is an excellent time to establish bare-root fruit and hedging, improve soil and protect vulnerable plants. Wildlife also benefits from a little care as natural food becomes scarcer and water begins to freeze.
What to sow & plant in November
Plant bare-root apples, pears, currants, gooseberries, raspberries and hedging while plants are dormant and the ground is workable. Choose disease-resistant varieties suited to your space, and water them in well after planting. Continue planting tulip bulbs for spring displays, along with winter bedding in sheltered containers. Plant garlic in free-draining soil if it was not planted earlier, but avoid waterlogged ground. Under cover, make small sowings of winter lettuce, spinach and pea shoots. In mild districts, plant overwintering onion sets for an early harvest.
Garden jobs for November
Begin winter pruning established apples and pears on dry days, removing damaged, crossing and congested growth while leaving stone fruit until summer. Protect tender plants with fleece, mulch or a sheltered greenhouse position, ensuring pots can drain freely. Clear leaves from lawns and paths, then turn healthy leaves into leaf mould. Cover bare vegetable beds with compost, well-rotted manure or a mulch, or dig only where your soil benefits from it. Check stored potatoes, onions and squashes for rot, and put out clean bird food and unfrozen water.
Northern England & Scotland
In northern England and Scotland, dormant planting may need to pause when soil is frozen, snow-covered or saturated. Mulch roots generously and raise pots off the ground to improve drainage. Keep fleece on hand for newly planted garlic, onions and winter salads. Winter pruning is best saved for a dry, frost-free spell. Greenhouse crops will grow slowly, so avoid overwatering.
Southern England
Southern gardens may remain workable for much of November, making it a productive time for bare-root fruit, hedging and tulips. Mild weather can support late onion-set planting and protected salad sowings, although slugs may remain active. Check newly planted trees during dry spells and water if necessary. Protect tender plants before the first hard frost rather than waiting for damage to appear.
Gardening in November: frequently asked questions
What can I sow or plant in November in the UK?
Plant bare-root apples, pears, currants, gooseberries, raspberries and hedging while plants are dormant and the ground is workable.
What garden jobs are there in November?
Begin winter pruning established apples and pears on dry days, removing damaged, crossing and congested growth while leaving stone fruit until summer.
What is different in northern Britain in November?
In northern England and Scotland, dormant planting may need to pause when soil is frozen, snow-covered or saturated.
Timing varies with the season and your local conditions; the RHS or a local garden centre can advise. Page updated 19 Sep 2026.