Fall Garden To Do List

As the cooler days of autumn settle in, it’s time to prepare your garden for a restful winter slumber. Putting your garden to bed ensures that it will thrive when spring returns. Here’s a handy list of things to do before the frost arrives:

Fall Garden To-Do List:

• Clear away debris: Remove fallen leaves, spent plants, and any debris that could harbour pests or diseases.
• Protect sensitive plants: Cover tender perennials like roses, lavender, and newly planted shrubs with mulch to insulate the roots. Consider using burlap wraps for more delicate plants that need extra protection from harsh winds.
• Add compost: Enrich your soil by spreading compost over your garden beds. This will improve the soil structure and provide nutrients for the next growing season.
• Water deeply before the ground freezes: Give your trees, shrubs, and evergreens a good soaking, ensuring they have enough moisture to last through the winter.

Pruning and Dividing

While you may be tempted to prune and divide perennials, not all plants benefit from fall intervention. Only prune what is necessary, like broken or diseased branches. If you’re looking for more in-depth advice on pruning and dividing specific plants, we have detailed articles that cover this process in depth.

Tender Bulbs and Spring Bulbs

Don’t forget to lift tender bulbs like dahlias and gladiolus, as they won’t survive the cold Ontario winters. Store them in a cool, dry place until spring. At the same time, now’s the perfect moment to plant spring bulbs like tulips, daffodils, and crocuses. Getting them in the ground before it freezes ensures a vibrant display when the snow melts. For more detailed care instructions, our articles on bulbs provide excellent guidance.

Cutting Back vs. Leaving for Wildlife

Not everything in the garden needs to be cut back. Some plants, like coneflowers, rudbeckia, and sunflowers, can be left standing to provide seeds for birds during the winter. Ornamental grasses and plants with hollow stems like bee balm or sedum can offer shelter for beneficial insects. The structure of these plants also adds beauty to your winter landscape.

As you prepare your garden for its long rest, remember that a little care now will bring rewards when the growing season returns. Happy gardening!