Well, we finally made it! The cool weather has come and autumn in in full effect. With the changing of the seasons, it means that it is time to start preparing your garden for the winter. Let’s talk some of the essential fall chores that everyone should be looking to do before the frost starts setting in.
One of the biggest projects that seems to take the most time is the lawn. With the cooler temperatures and the impending rain, it makes for the perfect conditions to establish new lawns or to focus on repairing an older lawn.
Task like aerating, especially in high traffic areas of a lawn, will help loosen any compacted soil. Aeration also allows for better air exchange; this helps stimulate new growth and can promote stronger roots. It is good for water retention as well. A lawn that has been aerated allows water to move into the soil and roots faster helping the lawn to grow thicker and greener.
Fall is also an excellent time for planting trees and shrubs. If you were thinking of a new shade tree, or doing a hedge in your yard now is when you want to plant. It is cool enough that the plants don’t stress but the soil still has that warmth for roots to grow and establish before the frost comes. Just make sure you are still providing plenty of water for newly planted trees in the fall. It helps them tolerate the harsh winter conditions better when well-watered in the fall.
When planting always add in new soil and some compost to help plants start out as well. A good 60/40 blend of new soil and native soil always works well. Adding a fresh layer of mulch such as wood chips or shredded leaves, at the base of trees and shrubs helps protect the roots from freezing winter temperatures.
As we cool down, its time to start harvesting the last of your vegetables. Which means now is a great time to prep those veggie beds for spring. Start with removing all plant debris, this helps prevent pests and diseases from overwintering in your garden and returning even worse in the springtime. Add a 2-3-inch-thick layer of compost to your veggie beds to help improve and condition your soil. You don’t even have to till it if you don’t want to, the precipitation and organisms in the soil will help with that process.
Finally, something that should be done every year that most of us try to put off till springtime. This is the perfect time to organize and maintain your gardening tools and gear. Tools like hand pruners, your big loppers, and shovels; can get dull from use throughout the year. Take this time to clean them up and get them sharpened. Most local hardware stores have yard tool sharpeners in the garden section. Also, don’t forget to take your mower blades in to get them sharpened.
Draining gas from your power tools is important. A lot of people have moved over to electric, but if you still have gas powered equipment, make sure that you drain all gas from them before storing away for the winter.
Beyond gardening chores, fall is a time to enjoy. Remember to take a moment to marvel in the changing colors of leaves, the last push of blooms before winter time. After all, a garden is always meant to be enjoyed.
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