Here is a list of fall gardening tips & chores. If You Try to tackle two or three of these items each week throughout the autumn then you and your garden will be all set for a long winter’s nap. It also helps cut down on some work in the spring!

1. Bring in Houseplants
One of the most common issues houseplants have when coming back indoors is bringing unwanted pests with them. Check your houseplants thoroughly for small insects like aphids, mealybugs and spider mites, and remove them. These pests can be in the soil or under the foliage on the plants you bring in for the winter, and can infest all of your houseplants. You may even want to use the hose to wash off your houseplants before bringing them in. This will help knock off any pests that you may have missed. You also may want to use an insecticidal soap or rose and flower spray in the soil and on the foliage for added protection.

The changes from outside to inside can be fairly dramatic so start by bringing plants in at night and move back outside in the morning. Gradually over the course of 2 weeks increase the amount of time plants are indoors until they are indoors full time. (While you are bringing in your houseplants why not give your full time houseplants some TLC as well. Pruning, Feeding, Cleaning and Re-potting are necessary for maintaining healthy and happy indoor plants).

2. Set up Bird Feeders
Take bird feeders out of storage or down from your yard clean thoroughly (wearing gloves is highly recommended) Thoroughly dry the feeders then hang. Remember to take into account where you can view your feathered friends but also what is best for the birds.

3. Rake Leaves and Build up Your Compost Pile
Self-explanatory. You can also mow/mower bag them and then add to your compost pile!

4. Mulch Around Roses, Strawberries, Tender Perennials, Trees etc.
Also, self-explanatory. Make sure that the mulch is not piled up around the base of plants & trees. Your plants & trees should have a well around them, not a volcano.

5. Clean up and Till Veggie Beds
After the first frost, there won’t be any doubt about what needs to be ripped out! While you’re at it, pull out the rest of your left spent annuals as well.

6. Plant Flowering Bulbs
A little work this month or next will pay big dividends next spring. Set aside some time and plan out and purchase what should go where and you’ll be ready to start digging and planting. Come next Spring you will be so delighted that you did!

7. Lift Tender Bulbs
Combined with #6 — as you pull out your elephant ears, cannas, and caladiums (summer flowering bulb), you can plant your spring flowering bulbs (tulips and daffodils, etc) in those same holes. Let the tender bulbs dry in a sunny, protected dry spot, then wrap in newspaper to store in your cellar or garage. Do not store in plastic bags they will rot!

8. Clean and Store Tools
Very Important!

9. Divide Over-crowded Perennials and Move Shrubs
My only advice is to only dig up as much as you’ll be able to replant that same day or the next day. Many gardeners are more ambitious than their time and energy allows. Your aching back will thank you! Also use a good root stimulator and Bumper Crop when transplanting.This will help transplants to establish before the cold winter months set in!

10. Work in Some Compost and/or Fertilizers
Evergreens, trees, shrubs, and your lawn will appreciate an extra vitamin boost before the hard freezes set in.

11. Keep Gutters Free of Leaves

12. Clean Pots
Scour pots with a stiff-bristled brush and rinse.

As always if you have any Fall Planting or Gardening Questions we are here to help you.

Happy Gardening!