Even if time is tight, focus on these fall cleanup chores before colder weather arrives. Some fall cleanup chores are more important than others to keep your yard and gardens looking fantastic.
Take Care of Garden Tools
Wipe tools clean of any sap, soil or dirt. If you have used a tool on a diseased plant, be sure to soak it in a 10 percent bleach solution and rinse well with clear water.
Dig Up Non-Hardy Bulbs
Lifting plants generally involves digging them up carefully, ridding them of excess dirt, allowing the bulb or tuber to dry out, and storing carefully in a cool, dry place for the winter.
Mulch Fall Leaves
Mulch serves a few purposes in the garden. It can hold moisture in the ground and even improve the soil quality. Mow the leaves on your lawn instead of bagging them.
Create Brush and Yard Debris Piles
Piles of branches, sticks and other yard debris can be worth their weight in garden gold. These piles can be used as compost, broken down into mulch, or serve as a home to helpful backyard bugs.
Store Garden Hoses
Drain your garden hoses and bring them in when you are done. Water left in hoses over the winter can lead to cracking and bursting.
Protect Your Roses
Trim tall canes and cover with straw or evergreen boughs to protect the plants from cold weather. You can also cover roses with dry leaves and wrap them with burlap.
Take some time this fall to clean up your yard and garden beds before winter arrives. You will be rewarded in the spring time.