Practical advice for a healthy autumn garden in South East London
As the days grow shorter and temperatures drop, many gardeners breathe a sigh of relief, thinking pest season is finally over. But in reality, autumn is one of the most critical times to tackle garden pests. With plenty of moisture, decaying organic matter, and less human activity in gardens, many pests actually thrive in autumn conditions — often going unnoticed until real damage is done.
If you’re based in South East London, you may already have noticed signs of trouble: chewed leaves, curled edges on vegetables, patches of dead grass, or trails left by slugs and snails after a rainy night. Left untreated, these pests can not only ruin your autumn plants but also overwinter and return in even greater numbers come spring.
Let’s look at how you can effectively manage pests this season, protect your plants, and when it makes sense to bring in professionals like Urban Gardeners for support.
Why pests are active in autumn
Autumn’s cooler days and higher humidity levels create perfect conditions for a range of pests, including slugs, snails, vine weevils, aphids, leatherjackets, and fungal diseases. As summer planting fades, pests seek shelter under fallen leaves, in compost heaps, or in the moist soil near roots and fences.
In South East London, where many gardens are sheltered and compact, these environments are easy to find. Without regular upkeep, pests quickly find hidden areas to breed and feed — quietly damaging bulbs, vegetables, and even established shrubs.
1. Keep your garden clean and dry
It all starts with cleanliness. A tidy garden isn’t just more attractive — it’s also far less hospitable to pests. Fallen leaves, plant debris, and wet mulch provide shelter and food for everything from slugs to fungus gnats.
Make it a habit to clear leaves weekly, especially around vulnerable plants and along walls or borders. Don’t forget to tidy under pots, raised beds, and outdoor furniture — these shaded, moist areas are common hiding spots.
At Urban Gardeners, we offer seasonal clean-up services that specifically target these pest-prone zones, using our experience to spot what most people miss.
2. Remove diseased or infested plants quickly
One of the biggest mistakes gardeners make in autumn is letting sick or infested plants “finish naturally.” While it might seem kind to let nature take its course, in reality, decaying, diseased plant material is a breeding ground for pests and diseases that will return in spring — stronger than ever.
If you see signs of mildew, black spots, leaf curl, or insect holes, remove those plants or leaves immediately and dispose of them away from your compost bin. This stops pests from overwintering and multiplying in your garden environment.
Urban Gardeners can assess plant health and carry out safe removal and eco-friendly disposal as part of our professional autumn maintenance packages.
3. Use natural pest deterrents and companion planting
You don’t need to reach for harsh chemicals to protect your garden. Many autumn pests can be kept at bay with natural repellents and smart planting techniques.
For example, garlic and chilli sprays help deter aphids and mites, while copper tape around containers can prevent slugs from climbing. At the same time, consider companion planting: garlic planted near roses deters aphids, while marigolds near vegetables help repel nematodes and beetles.
By introducing pest-repelling plants in autumn, you give them time to establish before spring — building a stronger natural defense over time.
4. Monitor the lawn for grubs and leatherjackets
Your lawn may look fine on the surface, but underneath, pests may already be setting up camp. Leatherjackets (the larvae of crane flies) are a common problem in South East London gardens and can destroy grass roots over winter, leaving dead patches by spring.
October and November are the best months to inspect your lawn. If you notice birds pecking at the grass or find soft, patchy areas, you might have a leatherjacket infestation. Treatment with nematodes or biological controls can be effective — but timing is critical.
Urban Gardeners can test soil health and recommend targeted treatments based on lawn condition and pest activity in your area.
5. Keep compost and bins secure
Compost heaps are excellent for your garden — but they can also attract unwanted guests if left unmanaged. Autumn pests like slugs, rodents, and even vine weevils often shelter in open compost bins or uncovered garden waste.
Make sure your compost bin has a lid and is turned regularly to maintain heat. Avoid adding any diseased plants or food waste that might attract pests. Gardeners who don’t maintain compost properly often create safe havens for pests without realising it.
Our team offers compost management guidance and setup as part of garden health consultations, making sure your compost helps your garden — not harms it.
6. Install barriers and protective coverings
As temperatures drop, certain pests become more aggressive in their search for food. Slug and snail damage peaks in wet, chilly months, especially if you’ve planted autumn vegetables like kale or spinach.
Using physical barriers, such as cloches, row covers, and mesh tunnels, is an excellent way to protect vulnerable crops without using chemicals. These can also help insulate your plants from early frost — a double benefit in unpredictable UK weather.
Urban Gardeners can design and install protective solutions tailored to your garden layout, helping reduce pest damage and keep your crops thriving.
Why professional help makes all the difference
Many garden pests are persistent and well-hidden. Spotting early warning signs, applying the right treatment at the right time, and knowing which solutions work best for your garden’s microclimate takes experience — and that’s where professional services save you time, money, and frustration.
At Urban Gardeners, we specialise in seasonal pest prevention and autumn garden care. Our team is trained to identify pest risks, treat infestations safely, and implement long-term strategies that work — all tailored to your outdoor space and your goals.
If you’re short on time, unsure where to start, or dealing with a recurring pest issue, we’re here to help you take back control of your garden.
Ready for a Pest-Free Autumn?
Don’t let pests take over your garden this season. With proper care, regular maintenance, and a proactive approach, your outdoor space can remain beautiful, healthy, and ready for the months ahead.
📞 Book your autumn pest control and garden maintenance now:
Let Urban Gardeners handle the pests — so you can enjoy your garden, not fight for it.
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