Before cold winds begin to blow and you need your heavy winter coat to be outside, take a look around your yard to see what needs to be done. Think of the work you do this fall as a jump on work to do next spring! Some attention to your landscape now will make a big difference in how your yard looks all winter.
Container Gardens
Most annuals that grew outside all summer long will not do so well indoors. There are a few exceptions (some customers say they bring their tropical hibiscus, lantana and geraniums inside to winter over in their garage or basement). Generally it’s best to start over next season with fresh annuals.
Find out what's happening in Mehlville-Oakvillefor free with the latest updates from Patch.
If perennials were used in your containers, get them in the ground while the soil is still warm. Assume the winter will be severe enough to kill them if left in pots.
Be sure to clean out your containers. If they are ceramic or clay you will need to bring them inside to assure they won’t crack.
Find out what's happening in Mehlville-Oakvillefor free with the latest updates from Patch.
Ornamental Grasses
They are tough and do not require care at this time of the year. It’s best to cut them back next spring when new growth appears. Enjoy the movement and texture they bring to your landscape during the long winter.
Water
We’re still below the average rainfall for the year, so it’s a good idea to give your evergreens, shrubs and perennials one last big drink before a hard frost.
Mulch
If you like mulch around trees in your yard check to be sure the mulch isn’t piled up next to the trunk of the tree. This will help keep voles, mice and other creatures from making a cozy home.
Garden Beds
After a killing frost, remove all damaged, diseased or frozen plants. This will help avoid potential problems during the next growing season.
Roses
Hybrid Tea, Grandaflora and Floribunda roses need protection from the cold and strong winter winds. After a heavy frost and before the ground freezes, remove all debris on the ground around each plant. Tall canes can be cut back 30-36 inches and tied together to prevent wind damage. Apply a 15 to 18-inch mound of mulch around each rose.
Fountains
Drain fountains completely and either bring them inside (smaller ones) or cover them completely with plastic. You may want to tie the plastic at the base to keep it in place. It’s important to avoid water from collecting, which will freeze and crack the concrete.