Getting the Yard and Garden Ready for Winter

I was super stoked to find these two half circle pieces of wood by the curb on garbage day. I have no idea what they are or what they were used for, my best guess: a headboard? Anyway, I instantly knew I could use 'em for a garden bed! I dug up the yard in two half moon sections against my fence and created garden beds for next year. I LOVE the way they look! For winter, I removed any weeds, turned over the soil, and cover the beds completely with fallen leaves. Then, In the spring, simply work the leaves right into the soil.

This is a good idea to do with any garden beds.

I just can't wait to see the garden next year!😊 I also cut down my perennials to about 4 inches. Definitely mark them since some are slow to emerge in the spring... you wouldn't want to plant something right over 'em!

Next...bulb care...

This is a great time to plant hardy bulbs such as iris. A general rule of thumb, dig 3inches down and space 3inches apart for most bulbs, cover with nutrient rich soil. Be sure to mark where you plant 'em!

Tender bulbs, such as gladiolus, should be removed and stored for the winter. Dig down around the bulbs carefully as to not damage the bulb. Remove any growth and soil and place in a cardboard box lined with newspaper and store in a cool, dry spot.

Seeds...

I harvest many of my own seeds in the Fall, such as these Morning Glories. After blooming, the plant will produce seeds, leave them on the vine until the pod turns brown, snip them off, remove everything from the seed pod (leaves, vine, calx) gently roll between your fingers and many seeds will separate apart. For storing my seeds for next season, I purchased a small hardware organizer with sections to separate the seeds. I took pictures of the plants that I harvested seeds from, printed them out and placed in each of the compartments. A little tip: choose an organizer that has sloped sides in the compartments... it makes it soooo much easier to get the seeds out! (Like a change drawer has)

You can harvest seeds from just about any flower for next year's season. I've had great success for many years now and find it very satisfying! Actually, this was the first year I was able to get my Moon Flowers to bloom!

Super impressive flower, huh??😊

On to bushes and shrubs...

But first, a little tip for using scrap wood for an edging. I raided my scrap wood pile and chose several pieces, no longer than 2inches wide, then cut them into 3 - 4inch strips.

Then simply created an edging by inserting into the ground... as I did with my new Lilac! This is a fantastic time of year to purchase bushes and shrubs as many are on clearance. I purchased this lilac at Home Depot for $2.00😊 When planting shrubs (and really any bush) I always dig a hole about 6- 12 inches larger than the root ball, and then plant. .

To winterize my shrubs, I mulch, fairly heavily, around the base of the plant and cover with a burlap sack once the first frost comes.

Don't forget your tools...

Before winter it's a good idea to clean and repair your tools. I also make a list of any tools I may need to replace for next season which, by the way, this is also a great time to find on clearance too!

At this time, I also empty and store my planters and outside pots. I've gotten into the habit of pouring the soil in the planters right into my garden beds. Then start with fresh potting soil next year. Don't forget to bring in any houseplants!

I hope these little suggestions will help you get your garden ready for winter!

Oh... and one last thing to do ...

Decorate for Halloween, of course!!😊🎃🕸

See you next time!