JD Gunnell
Fall is officially here, and there's a lot to look forward to: pumpkins on the porch, apple cider, cooler temperatures, and strolls among crunchy leaves. But before you settle in comfortably, don't forget that there is still work to be done in the garden and yard at the end of the season.
Here are some helpful tips from the University of Utah Gardeners' Almanac. Links to newsletters and videos are included for more information
- Find the average first and last snowfall dates by state.
- Consider adding a small structure, such as a low tunnel or a large, tall tunnel, to extend the growing season.
- Find out how and when to harvest winter squash and store it in a cool (10-15°C) and dry place.
- Plant garlic cloves from mid-October to early November.
- Check out this list of fall cleanups and good landscaping techniques to prepare your yard for winter.
- Remove vegetable plants from the garden after harvest to reduce overwintering sites for pests.
- Protect tomatoes from early frosts by covering the plants with a blanket or tarp.
- Cover carrots, beets and parsnips with mulch to prevent the soil around them from freezing.
- Add rototilla leaves, compost or manure to your garden to improve microbial activity in the soil.
- Prune roses by cutting very tall stems to avoid damage due to strong frosts.
- Cut back ornamental grasses in frosty areas as leaves return. Otherwise, leave them until spring and enjoy vertical accents in winter.
- Plant spring-flowering bulbs in early November.
- Plant trees and shrubs in the fall to encourage root development.
- For tender perennials such as gladioli, dahlias, begonias and cannas, dig up after the leaves have died and store in a cool (20-13°C) and dry place.
- Protect the trunks of young trees from cracks in winter by covering them with white reflective film.
- Dig up and remove annual flowers.
- Plant hardy annuals, including pansies, primroses, cabbages and ornamental kale.
- After fruiting, cut the raspberry stems and throw them on the ground.
- Control persistent perennial weeds such as nightshade. Check out this list of weed control options.
- Mow grass 1-1.5 inches late in the season to reduce disease problems.
- For early greening next spring, apply nitrogen fertilizers immediately after the last mowing (late October to early November).
Pests and problems:
- Dispose of diseased plants and foliage at your local landfill.
- Wrap evergreens with burlap or other soft material to prevent snow from breaking.
- Treat stone fruit (cherries, peaches, nectarines, apricots and plums) against downy mildew with 50% defoliation.
- Clean and discard all fallen fruit to reduce overwintering sites for diseases and pests.
- For more tips, visit Garden.usu.edu. Find information about gardening classes, growing and caring for your yard and garden, drought resources and tips for each month in the Extension Gardener's Almanac.
