Video: Finding Magic in the November Garden

Seasonal Reflections, DIY Updates, and Inspiring Ways to Embrace Your Outdoor Sanctuary

In November, as the days grow shorter and nature transitions from vibrant blooms to winter’s stillness, the garden remains a sanctuary. It’s a place to connect, reflect, and recharge—offering inspiration to step away from screens and focus on what truly matters.

I’m Elisabeth, a garden coach specializing in joy-filled family gardens. To me, a garden is more than a space—it’s a magical place where I become the parent I aspire to be: calm, present, and creative.

If you’re looking to create a magical November garden or need inspiration to transform your outdoor space into a family sanctuary, stick around. I’ve got plenty to share. Have a look at the video below or read on to find out what the video is all about:

What I Love About the Garden in November (01:40)

November is a time to slow down and enjoy the garden before the holiday rush begins. One focus for me this month is gratitude. Inspired by the American tradition of Thanksgiving, I take this time to reflect on all I have to be thankful for.

Autumn reminds me that happiness lies in appreciating what we already have. A few years ago, during this season, my daughter faced a sudden health crisis. Thankfully, the surgeons saved her, and she is fine now. That experience profoundly changed my perspective. It reminded me that I already have everything I need to be happy.

Each morning, I journal and list what I’m grateful for. This simple practice helps me center myself and approach December with joy and focus, resisting the excess of the holiday season.

DIY Updates: The Pergola (08:16)

Since my last video, we’ve completed the pergola—and it’s become an absolute favorite spot. Measuring 3m by 4m, we designed it slightly larger than initially planned. We added a clear roof to make it usable year-round and installed a rain chain with a pot to collect water.

We’ve decorated the pergola for the season with evergreens, ivy, and twinkling lights, creating a magical atmosphere. My hanging egg chair, attached to the pergola frame, is my morning journaling spot, and the kids love cuddling up in it.

The Fire Pit (11:16)

We transformed an unused dumping area near the gate into a cozy fire pit space. Now, we can light a fire whenever we feel like it, creating a lovely gathering spot. It’s perfect for crisp evenings and bringing the family together.

Preparing the Garden for Winter: Digging Up Dahlias (12:45)

In Edinburgh, winters are often wet, so I choose to dig up my dahlias rather than leaving them in the ground. This year, I’m trying a new method:

1. Leave soil on the tubers.

2. Cut off the stalks.

3. Nestle the tubers into leaf mulch for storage.

Leaf Mulch (17:20)

Why not toss your leaves directly onto your garden borders? They’ll break down naturally, enriching the soil and protecting your plants during winter. Leaf mulch is a simple, sustainable way to recycle garden waste.

Add Lots of Lights to the Garden (18:45)

Stringing up lights is my go-to way to make the garden feel magical, even in the darker months. Pair lights with cozy blankets, and you have a garden retreat ready for any chilly evening.

Plant Your Bulbs (19:16)

November is the perfect time to plant bulbs for a stunning spring display. This year, I’ve chosen mostly white and purple varieties to suit my garden’s palette.

My Bulbs:

• Crocus: Jean d’Arc, Silver Coral

• Narcissus: Mount Hood, Toto (white varieties)

• Tulips: Katinka, Silver Cloud, White Emperor (most likely to return each year)

Additional tulips I didn’t mention in the video include Finola, Showcase, and Tacoma.

How We Use the Garden in November (24:09)

Despite the colder weather, we spend a lot of time in the garden.

• Mornings: I start my day journaling in the garden, listing things I’m grateful for.

• After School: We have snacks outdoors, which almost always leads to playtime. The kids love games like tag, making these moments joyful and spontaneous.

• Evenings: The fire pit becomes the heart of our gatherings, where we enjoy hot drinks and relaxed conversation.

• Special Occasions: We even started our daughter’s birthday party in the garden with games, snacks, and hot chocolate.

An Honest Look at My Garden (27:20)

My garden is far from perfect, and I’m okay with that. Sharing its imperfections—like areas needing replanting or rearranging—is part of the journey.

Recent Projects:

• I created a play area under my daughter’s climbing tree.

• The Cobea scandens has taken over the arch—will it survive the frost?

• I made two oversized stars for the garden. Are they too big?

• I’m planning to plant propagated hydrangeas in front of the pergola.

• The pond has been a highlight this year, and my son’s log pile has become a winter haven for frogs and newts

Thank you for joining me on this November garden journey.

I hope it inspires you to enjoy your outdoor space, no matter the season. Stay tuned for more updates as the garden continues to evolve.

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Thank you for stopping by. If you have any questions, I’d love to hear from you! Get in touch: Elisabeth@joyfulgarden.co.uk