PREPARING THE GARDEN FOR WINTER

Autumn is a critical season for preparing your garden to thrive through winter and bloom anew in spring.

Start by clearing out old plants, weeds, and debris; this helps to prevent overwintering pests and diseases. Prune your perennials and shrubs carefully—cut back any dead or diseased growth, but leave seed heads on certain plants like coneflowers to feed birds during the colder months. Fallen leaves can be a goldmine for composting or mulching, so rake and gather them instead of discarding. Apply a fresh layer of mulch around trees, shrubs, and garden beds to insulate roots and preserve soil moisture.

It's also an excellent time for planting. Consider hardy vegetables like kale, garlic, or broad beans, which do well in cooler conditions. Spring bulbs such as daffodils, tulips, or crocuses can be planted now for a gorgeous display next year. Autumn is ideal for planting trees and shrubs, as the soil is still warm, encouraging root establishment before winter dormancy.

Don’t forget to take care of your tools and equipment—sharpen blades, clean your pruners, and store delicate items properly. Finally, test your soil and add amendments if needed, such as compost or lime, to give it a boost. By investing this care now, you’ll set your garden up for a successful growing season ahead.