Summer is over, and the crisp autumn breeze has officially arrived. Mornings are extra chilly and dew-covered, leaves have started changing colors—browns, reds, oranges, and yellows—and falling off their trees, and our yards and gardens have different needs from us now.
Wondering what kind of garden chores you can do this time of year? Check out what chores we recommend doing this month:
- Clean up your yard/garden: remove weeds, pick up fallen fruit, trim dead branches, etc. Get tips on sanitizing your garden!
- Rake leaves, if desired. Leaves should be collected as they fall to avoid covering plants and grass you want to keep healthy. Throw leaves into a compost pile or use them as mulch for your plants.
- Transition houseplants back inside for the cool season. Be sure to check for pests before making the move inside, treat as needed, and cut back on how much you are watering once indoors.
- Start a compost pile if you don’t have one already.
- Get your soil tested by bringing a sample in to your county extension office.
- Replenish mulch, as needed.
- Give pots a good cleaning with a 1:10 bleach/water solution.
- Avoid hard pruning at this time as many plants, namely spring-blooming plants, are setting buds for next year.
- Plant trees, shrubs, and perennials at this time (learn more about planting trees and shrubs below).
- Decorate your yard and house with seasonal décor, such as pumpkins, mums, and cornstalks. Look for disease-free fruits and healthy cornstalks, and monitor these living decorations, as occasionally squirrels and other critters can find them tantalizing!
Find all the details and get some great advice in the October Garden Guide.
Contact your agent for advice that’s specific to Carroll County, Arkansas.