Top 5 Fall Yard and Garden Tips

We know our neighbors enjoy their yards and gardens, and we enjoy them, too! As the season winds down, a few thoughtful choices can help prepare for spring and make room for the wildlife that shares our neighborhood.

1. Leave some leaves. Keep lawns, sidewalks and drains clear, but rake leaves under shrubs or into a garden corner where they can shelter overwintering insects. Shredded leaves can also be used as mulch or composted.

2. Let healthy stems and seedheads stand. They can provide winter shelter for insects and food for birds. There’s no need to cut back every healthy perennial this fall.

3. Remove plants that were diseased. Clearing affected vegetable plants can help reduce disease returning next year, while leaving healthy garden material in place where it can support wildlife.

4. Plant for spring and beyond. If the soil is still workable, plant spring bulbs. When adding other plants, consider native flowers or shrubs that can provide food and shelter for local wildlife.

5. Water trees and shrubs during dry spells. Newly planted trees and shrubs especially benefit from water before the ground freezes.

   
   

For more fall garden guidance, see Purdue Extension’s fall garden preparation tips.