The air is crisp, leaves are changing colors, and fall is here! Now that you’ve enjoyed spring planting and the summer’s harvest, it’s time to let nature take its course. Here are a few tips on how to prep your garden before the winter comes to get a jump start on next spring’s planting.
- Clean It Up
Pull up and discard any rotten plants — they can infect your garden with pests and fungus if they aren’t removed. Any old plants that are still healthy can be removed from the soil’s surface and buried in the soil. Adding organic matter to the soil improves the garden’s overall health. - Remove Weeds
Pulling up invasive plants completely is the only way to prevent them from sprouting again next year. Dig them up and toss in the trash or add them to your burn pile for your next backyard bonfire.
- Trim Perennials
When the flower is done blooming, cut the stalks at the base. This stops seed production, giving more energy to the plant. Foliage will look healthier and your garden appear neater. Not all plants require pruning, so be sure to do your research on what perennials in your garden will benefit from fall trimming.
- Prep the Soil
Adding nutrients to the soil at this time of year gives them time to break down and become active before the spring. Organic additives can include: banana peels, eggshells and animal manure. You can also add fertilizer, and to seal it all in, cover the soil with 3-4 inches of shredded leaves.
Taking these steps now will not only help you in the upcoming spring and summer, but they will help improve your garden in the long term.
Categories: DIY, Homeowner, How to, Shorewest Tips, Uncategorized
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