Show Stopping
Containers
Refresh with
fall annuals, evergreens, and colorful woody plants with interesting
twigs and berries. You will enjoy these all winter long.
Winter Preparations
Fall may be one
of the busiest times in the garden because it signals the end of the
growing season. Here are some suggestions for what can be done on
a crisp autumn day.
- Clean up the
vegetable gardens, annual beds and cut back perennials after the
first frost.
- Set your lawn
mower on a low setting for the last cut.
- Rake the lawn
thoroughly because any leaves that are left will smother the lawn
and retard spring growth.
- Fertilize
the lawn.
- Work fertilizer
and composted organic matter into your beds before the ground freezes.
In the spring when the soil begins to thaw it will absorb the melting
snow and the nutrients will be dispersed. This will feed your first
planting.
- Apply mulch
to protect your plants for the winter weather ahead. The mulch will
also retard weed growth. This is essential.
- Water if the
season remains dry.
- Collect stakes
and trellises; clean and store them in your potting shed for future
use.
- Empty containers
that are not frost resistant and bring them inside.
- Bring in your
house plants.
- Clear gutters
of fallen leaves.
- Disinfect
seedling containers.
- Clean, sharpen
and oil your tools.
Hide and Seek
- Tuck bulbs
into your perennial border, mingle them throughout your ground cover
or naturalize them around trees.
Be prepared for
a beautiful display next spring.
Fresh Dirt for October