November Garden Blog: Fall Clean-Up Tips

Summer’s breezes have yielded to fall’s gusty reminders: winter is near, and soon a blanket of snow will tuck our gardens to sleep. Before that happens, now’s the perfect (and last!) chance to tackle the big fall clean-up. We get it—this task doesn’t have the same thrill as spring prep. But with these simple tips, you’ll knock it out in no time!

Save Soil and Sanitize Pots

Why shell out extra cash on fresh potting soil when there’s likely plenty left in last season’s pots? Gone are the days of dumping it all out and starting fresh each spring. As long as the plants were healthy, pull out any old debris, toss the soil into a sealed, leak-proof container, and store it in a dry, cool place. Not only will you save money, but you’ll have one less thing to haul home from the garden center next spring! Just mix in a bit of garden tone and you'll be good to go.

Humane Pest Control

As the temperature dips, little critters like mice and chipmunks are scouting for cozy spots to stay warm. Your shed, garage, or even house could look like prime real estate to them. While I’d love to provide a sanctuary for all creatures, my husband insists, “We’re not running a wild animal park!” Here are three humane ways to keep them at bay without traps or poisons:

1. Peppermint Oil Spray – 100% peppermint oil, sprayed in areas like the garage or under the porch, deters rodents effectively and smells amazing! Reapply every few weeks as needed. We used this trick to gently encourage a woodchuck to return to the wild.

2. Fabric Softener Sheets – Tuck fragrant dryer sheets (like Bounce or Gain) in potential nesting spots. My husband swears by this for keeping mice out of his classic car all year long. Just refresh them as needed.

3. Steel Wool – For small openings, steel wool is a cheap, natural deterrent that blocks entry points without harming the animals.

Garden Tool Upkeep

With a few easy steps, you can make your garden tools last for years to come. Clean clippers, trowels, and other tools with a simple mix of vinegar and dish soap to sanitize and remove lingering bacteria or diseases. Not only will this extend the life of your tools, but it also helps ensure a healthier garden next year. Make a list of any tools that need replacing and keep your eye on winter and spring sales.

Yard Clean-Up

Rake up those leaves and pine needles and give your plants a cozy blanket! Spread these over your ground plants to create a natural mulch that will both insulate roots from harsh freezes and break down to provide nutrient-rich fertilizer in the spring. Just one tip—if any plants suffered from mold, mildew, or disease, be sure to dispose of that material far away from the garden to prevent contamination next year.

Taking these extra steps now will mean a cleaner, critter-free, and well-prepared garden next spring. Embrace the fall clean-up—it’s one more chance to enjoy the garden before winter arrives!