Table of Contents
Fall is a crucial season for home gardeners in Zone 6. As temperatures drop and days get shorter, it’s time to prepare your garden for the colder months ahead. Following a comprehensive fall to-do list can help ensure your garden stays healthy and ready for spring.
1. Clean Up and Clear the Garden
Start by removing dead plants, fallen leaves, and debris. Clearing out old plant material reduces pests and diseases that can overwinter in your garden. Compost healthy plant debris or dispose of it properly to prevent the spread of pests.
2. Prepare the Soil
Test your soil’s pH and nutrient levels to determine what amendments are needed. Add compost or organic matter to enrich the soil, promoting healthy root development for spring planting. Consider mulching to protect the soil from erosion and temperature fluctuations.
3. Plant Cover Crops
Plant cover crops such as clover, vetch, or winter rye to improve soil fertility and prevent erosion. Cover crops also suppress weeds and add organic matter when tilled into the soil in spring.
4. Protect Perennials and Sensitive Plants
Mulch around perennials with straw, wood chips, or leaves to insulate roots from freezing temperatures. Cover delicate plants with burlap or frost cloth to shield them from harsh weather.
5. Harvest and Store Crops
Harvest remaining vegetables such as pumpkins, squash, and root crops. Store them in a cool, dry place. Preserve herbs by drying or freezing for winter use.
6. Prepare Garden Tools and Equipment
Clean and sharpen garden tools. Drain and store hoses to prevent freezing damage. Store fertilizers, pesticides, and other chemicals safely away from children and pets.
7. Plan for Next Season
Reflect on this year’s garden and make notes for improvements. Plan new plantings, crop rotations, and garden layouts for the upcoming season. Order seeds early to ensure availability.
8. Final Checks Before Winter
Ensure all garden structures like trellises and fencing are secure. Drain and winterize irrigation systems. Water trees and shrubs deeply before the ground freezes to promote healthy roots.
By following this fall to-do list, Zone 6 gardeners can protect their gardens and set the stage for a vibrant spring. Proper preparation now will lead to healthier plants and a more productive garden next year.