November arrives with its load of wind and a noticeable drop in temperatures, leaving behind the celebrations of Halloween and All Saints' Day. It is a month to wrap up our plants, protect the most vulnerable ones and care for newly planted specimens. Although nature begins its winter rest, at Eiviss Garden we know there is still plenty to do. That is why we have compiled a series of tips and gardening tasks for November, to guide garden enthusiasts through this month of preparation and protection. In this post, we will provide essential information to keep your garden, terrace and vegetable garden not only alive but also thriving, despite the cold that lies ahead.
1. Fertilising: nutrition for your plants
As our Mediterranean climate faces the freshness of November, it is crucial to provide your plants with the right nutrition to strengthen them ahead of winter's arrival. Fertilisers should be chosen carefully, taking into account the particular climatic conditions and the specific needs of the soil and vegetation in this region.
Types of fertiliser to consider in the Mediterranean climate:
Organic fertiliser: Organic matter such as compost is vital for improving soil structure, which can be affected by November's sporadic rainfall. In addition, worm castings are an excellent soil conditioner for typical Mediterranean soil, which is often stony and calcareous.
Slow-release fertiliser: Fertilisers such as guano or slow-release granular fertilisers are perfect for this time of year, providing balanced nutrition that supports plants through the colder months.
Green manure: Incorporating plants as green manure — such as nitrogen-fixing legumes — can be an excellent strategy for preparing vegetable gardens for spring.
Tips for fertilising in November in the Mediterranean area
Moderation and precision: Since plants grow more slowly in winter, it is important not to over-fertilise. Use fertilisers rich in potassium to increase cold resistance and limit nitrogen, which stimulates growth that is not desirable at this time of year.
Watering and fertilising: Although November may bring rain, make sure your plants are adequately watered before applying fertiliser, especially in areas where rainfall is irregular.
Native and adapted plants: Opt for organic fertilisers for plants native to and adapted to the Mediterranean climate, such as olive trees, lavender and rosemary, which require fewer nutrients and benefit from a more natural and less intensive fertilisation.
Final fertiliser application of the year: This month is generally the last chance to fertilise before growth comes to a complete stop with the arrival of winter. Make sure to do it at the beginning of the month so the plants can make use of the nutrients.
2. Planting: renewal and freshness
November invites us to renew and refresh our gardens with plantings that adapt perfectly to the gradually falling temperatures.
Ideal plants to plant in November
Native trees and shrubs: November is a suitable month to plant or move trees and shrubs, especially those adapted to the Mediterranean climate, such as the olive tree, holm oak and almond tree.
Late-flowering bulbs: just like in October, in November it is possible to plant some that bloom later, such as lilies, hyacinths, crocuses, daffodils, freesias, irises, anemones and certain types of late tulips, for colourful surprises at the end of spring.
Cyclamen, asters, chrysanthemums or rose bushes: they will offer us their splendour in the current cycle or prepare their burst of colour for the next season.
Aromatic plants: take advantage of the season to plant woody aromatics such as rosemary, thyme and lavender, which not only withstand the cold well, but also need less watering, making them ideal for this dry season.
3. Indoor plants
As the outdoors becomes colder and windier, November invites us to turn our attention indoors, where our plants also require specific care. The Mediterranean climate, although mild compared with other regions, brings certain changes that can affect our beloved houseplants.
Ambient humidity
Houseplants can suffer in heated environments, as the air tends to dry out. To counteract this:
Use a humidifier to increase the ambient humidity around your plants.
Place bowls of water near radiators so it can evaporate and increase humidity.
Group your plants together so they can benefit from each other’s transpiration.
Sunlight
Daylight hours decrease and the sun’s intensity does too. To adapt to this:
Reposition the plants so they receive as much sunlight as possible. Keep them near windows, but without the direct cold from the glass.
Clean the leaves and windows regularly to allow better light absorption.
Consider using grow lights if natural light is insufficient.
Watering and feeding
Watering should be adjusted in winter, as indoor plants enter a slower growth phase.
Reduce how often you water, making sure the soil is dry to the touch before watering again.
Avoid leaving water in the saucer under the pot to prevent root rot.
Pause feeding until spring, when plants resume active growth.
Pest control and cleaning
Indoor air in winter can encourage pests such as spider mites to develop.
Inspect your plants regularly for signs of pests and disease.
Keep the leaves free of dust to help prevent pest infestations and allow them to breathe and receive light properly.
If you detect pests, treat them with a suitable indoor insecticide or natural remedies such as insecticidal soap.
Checking pots and roots
It is a good time to check whether the plants need repotting.
Check whether the roots are very tight in the current pot. If so, plan to repot into a slightly larger pot.
If you decide to repot, use fresh soil and make sure the new pot has good drainage.
4. Kitchen garden: harvesting and sowing
This is a month of transition in the kitchen garden, where some harvests are coming to an end and others are only just beginning their cycle. Here’s a guide to what to do for harvesting and sowing in November.
Harvesting in November
Broccoli, pumpkin, courgette and cauliflower: They may be ready to harvest if planted in late summer.
Citrus fruits: In Mediterranean regions, citrus fruits such as oranges and mandarins may start to ripen.
Olives: For those with olive trees, this month is ideal for olive harvesting.
Root vegetables: Beetroot, carrots and radishes, turnips and leeks may be ready to pull from the ground.
Leafy greens: Spinach and winter lettuces may still be in full production.
Planting and sowing in November
Garlic and onions: You can plant garlic and onions to harvest next spring or summer.
Broad beans and peas: These are winter crops that can begin to be planted in November.
Spinach and rocket: They make the most of cooler temperatures to grow without scorching.
Winter lettuces: Choose cold-hardy varieties.
5. Lawn
Even though the lawn grows more slowly and the days get shorter, it is essential to keep up a few maintenance practices to ensure its health and beauty. Let’s look at how to care for the lawn in this typically autumnal month.
A lawn free of dry leaves
Falling leaves are a hallmark of the season, and while they may be picturesque, they are not friends of a healthy lawn. A layer of dry leaves can block the light and air that the grass needs. Let the rake be your companion and set aside time each week to clear away these autumn visitors. In addition to preventing disease, you will turn this "waste" into "gold" for your compost bin, closing the circle of life in your garden.
Watering on pause
Artificial watering can take a holiday in November, thanks to the rain that usually waters naturally. However, if the weather is unwilling to cooperate, a light watering may be necessary. But remember, more is not better; too much water could lead to the spread of fungi and disease.
It is not time to mow
The lawnmower also deserves a break. Without the need to mow, we give the lawn the opportunity to grow stronger and prepare for the cold days ahead. A slightly longer grass height acts as a natural coat against low temperatures.
Composting with leaves
Autumn gives us the perfect material for compost: leaves. By raking them up and adding them to your compost, you are enriching your garden’s future with essential nutrients that will return to the soil as organic fertiliser.
Transform your garden into the oasis you have always imagined, and remember that, just like the seeds that sprout, every effort you make will eventually bloom into success over time. If you are looking for guidance, our experts at Eiviss Garden will be delighted to offer their support.
Have you found this article useful? We would love to hear about your November gardening achievements. Share your stories in the comments and spread this post among your fellow garden enthusiasts.
