For homeowners who keep a garden, with the change of seasons comes a task list.
There are basic tasks for gardeners -- for example, raking the leaves, sharpening your tools. And, there are advanced tasks, too, which includes identifying and removing plants and trees which may be dead, and covering compost to prevent rain storms from leaching nutrients.
November is when you should circle evergreens with burlap and wrap the bottoms of young trees with mesh wire to protect from wildlife; and empty and roll up garden hoses for storage.
It's also when bulbs should be planted. Tulips, crocuses and hyacinths are easy to plant and will welcome you come springtime.
For all homeowners, consider this list :
- Aerate lawns to improve root development and drainage
- Check and clean gutters from fallen leaves, needles, and twigs
- Perform a round of weeding
And then, to discourage weed growth throughout the winter, place down a pre-emergent, and mulch around bedding plants, shrubs, and trees.
If your temperatures in your area tend to go below freezing, be aware of your plants which are sensitive to de-icing salts. Consider buying sand or sawdust for traction purposes near these plantings instead.
Lastly, remember that the fall months are a terrific time to take note of what worked in your garden during the summer, and what didn't. Use a notebook and put your findings to