With autumn in full effect in the Pacific Northwest, it’s time to schedule a day or two to prep your garden for the fall. I really think it’s best to get this chore out of the way early in the season when it’s still relatively warm and tolerable and DRY. Last year, I had to wait until the first week of November to clear out my garden because I missed my early season window. Then it rained most of October and I don’t know about you, but I’m not a fan of working outside in pouring rain. By that point, it got really cold outside and it was not enjoyable being out there.
Doing the work now to put your garden to sleep for the cold season will ensure you’ll have a healthy garden to welcome you when it’s time to replant in the spring. Here are ten things to do to prepare your garden for fall.
1 | Pull out all the vegetables
Any vegetables that you still have in the garden probably won’t be producing anymore now that the weather is getting cold. You’ve probably noticed the leaves turning yellow and dying off. It’s time to clear out all the vegetables - even the ones you think can still go a little longer. Trust me, you’re not going to want to do anything if the nice weather suddenly turns rainy and/or cold.
2 | Mix compost into the soil
After your garden beds are all cleared, put nutrients back into soil by mixing in compost. The broken down organics will do their magic so you’ll have healthy soil to plant new seeds in the spring.
3 | Plant fall vegetables
You need not have empty beds in the fall and winter. I often plant carrots and kale from seed after I’ve cleared out my beds. They grow really well in cold temperatures. Last year, I planted garlic for the first time and I had such a gorgeous and healthy harvest in the spring that I’m definitely planting more this year. I just love their low-maintenance quality - you just plant them, mulch before winter comes, and let them hibernate through the winter. I might even plant 90% garlic and 10% carrots this year!
4 | Weed
I don’t know if this an absolute necessity, meaning they probably won’t harm your garden in the winter, but I just like to have a clean slate.
RELATED POST: 3 Organic Ways To Remove Weeds
5 | Wash and put away gardening tools
If you don’t wash and store your tools properly, they will rust and lose their quality a lot quicker than intended. Take a moment to wash them of all soil and grass clippings (yes, check your lawn mower too!), dry thoroughly, and tuck them away in your garden shed or garage for hibernation. They’ve had a long season and need their rest. *smile*
6 | Move potted plants inside
The plants in your containers probably aren’t winter hardy. Keep them alive and healthy by moving them indoors.
7 | Cut and dry herbs
Don’t waste your hard grown herbs! Clip them all and dry or freeze them for use throughout the winter.
8 | Cut back all perennials
Basically, the perennials are done growing and they’ll just get all brown and ugly from this point on. Do your eyes a favor and cut them all down to the ground. They’ll still grow back next year (if you don’t pull out the roots or bulbs).
9 | Give trees a trim
Don’t forget those trees! We have a giant fig tree in our backyard that would continue to drop too-ripe figs and dead leaves through the season if we don’t give it a major haircut. Last year, I pretty much trimmed it bald.
10 | Cover shrubs and small trees
Any shrubs and small trees need to be kept warm too! First, mulch them, then cover them with burlap and tie down with twine.
EXTRA CREDIT: If you have patio furniture in your garden, clean them off and move them indoors or cover them with furniture tarp. They’ll last longer if they’re protected from the elements the next several months.
Now you should have a happy and healthy garden that’s ready for hibernation! I guarantee you’ll also feel more relaxed this winter too.
Did I miss anything from this list? What things do you do to prepare your garden for fall?
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