Get your Garden Ready for Fall, 3 Things You Need to Know

I'm sure summer is still on most of our minds, but there are some things we should plan for heading into fall.  I'm not the gardening type, but I do occasionally hire professionals to get the basic job done.  My wife and I have a giant tree that got a little out of control.  It really needed a haircut.  I called around and got bids on what it would take to get the job done.  I found it to be a little expensive, but the tree really needed some love from a pro.  So as you think about your garden and yard here are some tips to get you ready for fall.  I have a feeling it will be here before you know it...

Pruning

Fall begins the perfect season to cut back perennial growth in preparation for winter. This reduces the chance of perennial extremities becoming damaged due to cold or extreme weather, and reduces the workload that waits when spring arrives. Fall is also a good time to assess which plantings have shown the most success, and remove those that have struggled or simply failed to strive in preparation for new spring selections.

Fall and Winter Growth

Many plants will continue to grow and thrive during the colder months, and those that are less responsive to colder temperatures can often be started indoors in advance of spring plantings. Bulbs and perennials will do quite well when planted in the fall, and will grow slowly throughout the winter. Bulbs can also be started indoors and transplanted when spring arrives.

Compost and Fertilizer

After pruning and removal is complete, the starter materials are in place to build a nourishing compost pile for future seasons. The compost pile location is up to each gardener but it is recommended to choose a spot where it will be out of the way of foot traffic. For the first season, use of mulch can nourish the soil, or use the extra leaves and branches as a thick protective layer over the garden bed