Leaves are starting to turn brown and fall from trees in summer, caused by a ‘false autumn’. Despite the familiar signs, autumn will only officially arrive on September 22. Here’s how to help your garden during this time.

According to the weather body, ‘false autumn’ is a phenomenon in which the stress of extreme summer conditions prompts trees and plants to behave as if the season has changed, even though it is still late August. It comes after the UK has seen record-breaking heat and dryness this summer, with four heatwaves hitting Britain.

Earlier this week, the Met Office said this summer would “almost certainly” be the UK’s warmest on record, as the mean average temperature for the season stood at just over 16C, based on data up to August 25. If this season is confirmed as setting a new high for average temperature, it will mean all of the UK’s top five warmest summers will have occurred since the year 2000. The Met Office lists the following three reasons as the causes of false autumn:

• Drought conditions: Extended periods of dry weather can lead to trees entering survival mode, meaning they shed leaves to conserve water and energy

• Heatwaves: Unusually high temperatures can exacerbate stress on trees, prompting them to drop leaves prematurely

Gardening experts have given tips on how to help your plants during a “false autumn.” One main way is to focus on moisture management. Water deeply instead of frequently.

Rather than light, daily sprinkles, aim for a thorough soak that encourages roots to grow deeper, making them more resilient to dry spells.

Adding 5cm to 8cm of organic mulch, such as compost, wood chips, or leaf mould, around the base of your plants also helps the soil retain moisture, regulates temperature, and protects roots from stress.

Be sure to prune with care. Remove dead or diseased branches to help plants conserve energy, but avoid major pruning during this time to prevent further stress to the plant.

Also, stop feeding plants. Adding fertiliser can cause undue stress by encouraging new, sensitive growth that won’t survive the coming colder weather.

Consider moving potted plants inside or somewhere sheltered, and reduce watering for indoor plants. Move them closer to light sources but away from cold drafts.

Also, be sure to try and help local wildlife. False autumn can deplete natural food sources, creating a scarcity for wildlife later in the year. Place a regular supply of water at ground level and higher up.

Put out high-energy foods, such as sunflower seeds, nuts, and fat balls for birds, and commercial hedgehog food at ground level.