Seasonal GardeningÂ
Plant Bulbs in Fall
Plant spring-flowering bulbs such as tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths in the fall. They need a period of cold dormancy before they can bloom in the spring.
Winter Pruning
Use the winter months for pruning deciduous trees and shrubs. Without leaves, you can see the structure more clearly to make the best cuts.
Fallen Leaves
Collect fallen leaves in autumn to make leaf mold or add to your compost heap. They are a valuable source of carbon and nutrients.
Overwintering Tender Plants
Bring tender plants indoors or into a greenhouse to overwinter. Most tender perennials can't survive freezing temperatures but can flourish indoors with enough light and moisture.
Late Summer Planting
Plant fall-harvested crops in late summer. Many cool-season crops, like kale and Brussels sprouts, taste better after a frost.
Prevent Winter Damage
Protect your plants from winter damage by wrapping them in burlap or using rose cones. This is particularly important for young plants and those with less hardiness to cold.
Cover Crops
After your last summer harvest, plant a cover crop like clover or winter rye. It will protect your soil from erosion, suppress weeds, and add nutrients when tilled into the soil in spring.
Divide Perennials
Early spring or fall is the best time to divide perennials. This helps rejuvenate older plants, control their size, and create new plants for other areas of your garden or to share.
Plant Bare-Root Trees and Shrubs
Take advantage of the dormant season (late winter to early spring) to plant bare-root trees and shrubs. They're often cheaper than potted plants and transport and establish well during this period.
Autumn Composting
Autumn is an ideal time to start a compost heap. There's an abundance of fallen leaves and other organic matter to kick-start the composting process.
Force Bulbs
Force bulbs indoors in winter for a festive display or early spring color. Bulbs like amaryllis and paperwhites are popular choices for forcing.
Sow Winter Vegetables
Certain vegetables, like winter lettuce and spinach, can be sown in late summer for a winter harvest. Use cloches or a greenhouse for better results in colder regions.
Harvesting Timing
Harvest vegetables when they're young and tender for the best flavor. Regular harvesting also often stimulates further production.