Gardening Weather

Just because temperatures are falling doesn't mean you're done with your gardening chores. Here are some garden tasks to complete now so you can enjoy your plants next season.

  • Bring indoor plants inside in time for them to readjust before the heat is turned on. Expect some leaf loss or the browning of leaf edges on some plant species as the plants adjust to lower light and humidity levels indoors.
  • Finish planting your spring flowering bulbs (tulips, daffodils, flowering onions) and dormant nursery stock while the soil remains manageable.
  • Aerate your lawn if the soil is compacted or if thatch is a problem. Using gypsum and fertilizer will improve soil conditions and provide nutrients for healthy turf growth.
  • Drain garden pools so they won't freeze and become damaged. Store water lilies indoors.
  • After a heavy frost, remove all blackened plants such as zinnias, petunias and marigolds. Remove and destroy plant stems on any perennials.
  • Turn the soil over in vegetable and flower gardens, if possible. Litter-free areas in the garden or under fruit trees will help eliminate many disease and insect problems the following season.
  • To stretch out flowering a couple more weeks in the autumn, you can cover plants with plastic or cloth sheets, boxes or newspaper tents. These will provide protection against the initial frosts. If your unprotected plants are damaged by light frosts, they can be revived by hosing them with water before the sun rises.
Lay a foundation for next year's garden by completing these tasks now.
Help your garden survive when there's little or no rain.
Find out how to help plants and flowers thrive during damp weather.
Your garden can thrive in shady areas, if you know how to garden wisely.
Plant Hardiness Zones help determine which plants are best suited to a specific area. Know your zone!
Get your trees, lawn and garden ready for cooler temperatures.
Follow these gardening guidelines to help your plants and flowers flourish in the cold months.