- Cut down perennials in stages as foliage blackens or flops over
- Dormant pruning season begins when leaves are off the trees, with structure easily visible
- Refresh containers for fall with hardy material that can withstand the occasional cold night
- Remove spent annuals planted in the ground
- Dig and store tubers of dahlias and gladiolus after frost
- Clean up vegetable gardens promptly to avoid making havens for pests and diseases to overwinter
- Test soil and amend vegetable gardens (for raised beds, also top off with fresh raised bed mix)
- Test soil and amend ornamental beds of trees, shrubs and perennials
- Rake and shred leaves for use as mulch
- Drain and store hoses indoors for winter to prolong life
- Shut down irrigation systems by early November
- Plant spring blooming bulbs and garlic now
- Finish dividing, planting and transplanting (last call!)
- Top off shrubs and trees planted this season with a layer of winter mulch
- Leave woody herbs, hydrangeas and tree peonies alone, do not cut back!
- Plan for winter deer protection
- Plan for anti-desiccant protection for vulnerable broadleaf trees and shrubs
