October Garden Chores

October is a time to pull out the autumn trimmings and officially store summer décor. It’s also time to complete fall garden tasks. October’s gardening to-do list includes some carry-over from our September Gardening To-Do List along with some new tasks. Chores will vary region to region based on climate.

October Gardening To-Do List

1. Divide your perennials.
   If you haven’t divided them yet, now may be a good time. You’ll want to divide them at least 6 weeks before your region’s first frost to allow the roots time to establish. Cut back any perennials that need fall pruning.
2. Clean up your garden beds.
   Cut back any perennials that need fall pruning and remove spent crops. Clear out any dead plant material and leaves.
3. Plant new trees and shrubs.
   Fall is a great time to plant new trees and shrubs. In northern climates, be sure to plant early enough to allow roots to establish before the ground freezes. If you’re in a warmer climate, you can wait until later in the season.
4. Plant spring bulbs.
   In norther climates, it’s the right time to plant spring bulbs. In warmer climates, you may want to wait until November.
5. Watch the weather for the first killing frost.
   It’s the time of year where some parts of the country will get its first frost. Keep an eye on the forecast and cover fall-blooming perennials to protect them.
6. Keep watering.
   Although the weather is cooling down in many parts of the country, your plants still need water. They won’t need as much as they did in the summer, but you’ll want to water until the ground freezes.
7. Assess your garden.
   Take a look at your garden and make note of what changes you want to make next year.