Wetter, colder weather is on the horizon. So while we enjoy the last of the not-so miserable temperatures, it’s essential to start prepping our homes for the storms ahead – especially our gardens and driveways. It’s easy to assume that slippery garden paths are caused by rain alone. But the plants growing around them can play a surprisingly important role.
Overhanging shrubs, low ground cover and untidy grasses can shade paving, trap fallen leaves and prevent moisture from drying out. By the time winter arrives, that damp surface may have developed a layer of moss or algae that makes every trip down the garden path an adrenaline-fuelled excursion.
So, before the weather turns properly wet, there’s one September job worth prioritising: cutting back anything crowding your paths. It’s a small bit of garden maintenance, but it can improve light and airflow, reduce debris and make the surface easier to keep clear, and more importantly – safer to walk on – throughout the winter.
The one job: open up your garden paths
The most important thing to do now is to cut back any plants crowding the edges of your garden paths. This is often overlooked as we tend to clean the paving itself, rather than address the planting that keeps it shaded, enclosed and covered in potentially slippery debris.
How to do it
Start at one end of the path and work along both sides, looking for anything that is:
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- Flopping or growing across the paving
- Brushing against the edges
- Creating a dense, enclosed border
- Trapping leaves and other garden debris
Cut back overgrown shrubs, grasses, ivy and ground-covering plants until there’s a clear margin on either side of the path. Remove dead stems and foliage, lift sprawling growth off the paving and thin out dense areas where necessary.
You do not need to strip the borders bare or dramatically reshape your plants. The aim is simply to open up the path so more daylight and air can reach it, helping the surface dry more quickly after rain. We don’t need to make our lawns ugly in the process. This also reduces the amount of organic matter left to break down on the paving, which can contribute to moss, algae and slippery surfaces.
Avoid tackling large trees or substantial branches yourself. These may require specialist pruning, particularly if they are close to buildings, power lines or overhead paths.
Other tips and tricks to keep paths safer
Sweep regularly once leaves begin to fall
Do not wait until leaves have become wet and compacted. A stiff outdoor broom used once a week can remove debris before it starts breaking down on the surface.
Deal with moss early
If moss is already present, brush it away with a stiff-bristled brush while the surface is dry. Treat persistent growth with a product designed for the specific paving material, following the instructions carefully.
Check for standing water
Look for puddles after rain. Blocked drains, compacted soil, damaged paving or overgrown borders may be stopping water from draining properly, which could lead to issues later on or even icy conditions in the depths of winter.
Keep gutters and downpipes clear
A leaking or overflowing downpipe can leave one section of path permanently damp. Clear nearby gutters and check that water is not being directed directly on to the paving.
Be cautious with pressure washers
Pressure washing can be great at removing grime quickly, but excessive force may damage paving or loosen the pointing. If using, choose the lowest effective setting and avoid directing water towards walls, doors or delicate plants.
Improve grip where necessary
For particularly smooth or shaded paths, consider adding non-slip treatment or replacing damaged sections with a more suitable textured material. This is especially worthwhile on steps and sloping paths.
