Fall Gardening: Planning for a Healthy Spring

Fall is quickly descending upon the northeast, and although an Indian Summer may be down the road, it’s a reminder that it’s time to prep for next year’s garden.  The following are a few important tasks to do before the hard frost.  

Shrubs and Trees

• Plant new trees and shrubs now, so roots have a chance to settle in before a freeze. Mulch and water well, but save fertilizing for the springtime. Fertilizing can cause new growth susceptible to a killing frost. 

• Established trees and shrubs will appreciate a bit of cleaning up and fertilization.  Trim, cross, and remove dead branches, saving any major pruning for spring.  

Perennials and Annuals

• Add organic matter to your soil, water thoroughly, and apply mulch as needed. Spreading a dried leaf base can serve as both insulation and mulch.    

• Find free seeds for next year’s garden. Many flowers can self-pollinate, such as echinacea,  cosmos, and rudbeckia, along with many herbs and vegetables.  Collect seeds, label, and store in a cool, dry place for next spring.  

• Bulb planting: hyacinths, tulips, crocuses, and so many more) should be done before the ground freezes. 

Vegetable Garden To-Dos

• Before that first frost, gather those vegetables.  I currently have green tomatoes on the counter (the squirrels were helping themselves a bit too much), as these will continue to ripen.  Cucumbers, beets, and beans can be preserved (canning and freezing).

• Potatoes are ready once the stems and leaves turn brown. For smaller, new potatoes, harvest now.  For larger spuds,  it’s best to wait a few weeks after they die down to harvest.

• Onions are nearly ripe when their leaves yellow—bend the tops, loosen the soil, and let them cure in place. Handle carefully to prevent rot.

• Herbs like basil and thyme can be moved indoors into small pots.  Some herbs, such as dill, can reseed on their own, but may not be as potent. 

• Now is a great time to pull weeds and turn over the soil.

  
  

Fall gardening doesn’t have to be a chore—it’s a time of change and rejuvenation for next spring.  By caring for your garden now, you’ll save yourself time and frustration when spring arrives. So grab your rake. trowel, and a hot cup of tea—it’s time to tuck your garden in for the winter.  Maybe, save the hot toddy for afterwards!

Ready to get your garden set for next spring? Contact ADK Gardens for professional landscaping advice, seasonal maintenance, and custom planting plans tailored to your yard.