Quick Garden Clean-Up Tips Before Winter

Easy Wins to Prepare Your Garden for the Cold

As the days grow shorter and the crisp air of fall settles in, now’s the time to give your garden a quick clean-up before winter. If you’re a new gardener looking for simple ways to tidy things up without too much effort, this guide is for you! These easy-to-follow steps will help protect your plants and set you up for a successful spring.

1. Clear Out Spent Plants

By this time of year, many annuals and summer vegetables are finished. Start by pulling up dead or dying plants from your garden beds. This helps clear the space and reduces the chance of pests and diseases overwintering. Toss the healthy plant debris in your compost pile and dispose of any diseased plants to avoid spreading issues.

Tip: Don’t worry about perfection here! Just focus on removing the biggest eyesores—your garden will instantly look neater with this small effort.

2. Trim Back Perennials

For your perennials, focus on cutting back any dead or damaged growth. Plants like hostas, daylilies, and peonies can be trimmed back to the ground. This helps them conserve energy during the cold months, and you’ll start fresh in the spring. However, leave plants like ornamental grasses and sedums—they add winter interest and shelter for wildlife.

Tip: If you’re short on time, aim to prune just the plants closest to walkways or patio areas for a quick visual improvement.

3. Mulch to Protect and Prevent

A fresh layer of mulch is one of the best “easy wins” for your garden before winter. Mulch helps regulate soil temperature, reduces weeds, and provides extra protection for your plants’ roots. Spread about 2-3 inches of mulch around your garden beds, especially around tender perennials and shrubs.

Tip: Use Coast of Maine’s dark, rich mulches available at 16 Acres Garden Center for a polished look that will last through the season.

4. Tidy Edges and Paths

Nothing spruces up a garden faster than cleaning up the edges! Grab a rake or broom and sweep away any fallen leaves, sticks, or debris from your garden paths, driveways, and patios. You can also redefine garden bed edges with a quick trim—this gives the entire area a clean, maintained look.

Tip: For an even quicker fix, focus on the areas you see most from your home or entertaining spaces. A tidy front yard or patio makes a big impact!

5. Quick Check on Tools and Supplies

Take a few minutes to clean and store any gardening tools you won’t need for winter. This simple step helps prolong the life of your tools and gets you prepped for the next season. Hang your hoses, store your shovels, and organize your potting shed or garage for an easy spring start.

Tip: Stop by 16 Acres Garden Center to stock up on tool organizers or snag some last-minute supplies before winter hits.

Wrapping Up

With just a little time and effort, your garden can be winter-ready in no time. Follow these quick tips, and you’ll protect your plants, tidy up your space, and head into the colder months feeling accomplished. Plus, your future spring self will thank you for setting the stage for an easier growing season.