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Putting the Garden to Bed: Fall Cleanup Checklist

Posted on by sunrise-sixteen
03
Oct

As autumn settles in, it’s time to tuck your garden in for the winter months. A little effort now ensures healthier soil, stronger plants, and a vibrant spring show. At Sixteen Acres Garden Center, we’ve put together a practical checklist to guide you through fall cleanup.

1. Clear Out Annuals

Annual flowers and vegetables that have finished their season should be pulled up and composted. Removing them prevents disease from carrying over to next year and keeps your garden beds tidy.

Tip: If any annuals are still blooming strong, enjoy them until the first hard frost—then clean them up promptly.

2. Cut Back Perennials

Once perennials begin to die back, cut stems to about 2–3 inches above the soil. This helps the plants conserve energy for winter dormancy.

Exceptions: Leave ornamental grasses, coneflowers, and seed heads for birds and winter interest. They add beauty and support wildlife through the colder months.

3. Protect and Enrich the Soil

  • Add mulch: A fresh 2–3″ layer of mulch insulates plant roots and prevents soil erosion.

  • Compost: Mix in organic matter to improve soil health for spring planting.

  • Cover crops: Consider sowing clover or winter rye in vegetable beds to enrich the soil and reduce weeds.

4. Take Care of Tools & Containers

Don’t forget to clean and store garden tools, hoses, and containers. Proper storage extends their life and saves you time in the spring.

FAQ

Q: When is the best time to start fall cleanup?
A: Begin once most plants have died back after the first frost. In Springfield’s Zone 6a, this is usually late October through early November.

Q: Should I cut everything down in fall?
A: Not necessarily. Some perennials and grasses provide habitat and food for birds and beneficial insects, so you may want to leave a few standing until spring.

Q: How much mulch should I apply?
A: About 2–3 inches around your perennials, shrubs, and trees. Be sure not to pile mulch against plant stems or trunks.

Quick Takeaway

A thorough fall cleanup sets the stage for a healthier, more vibrant garden next year. Clear out what’s finished, cut back what needs rest, and protect your soil—it’s like tucking your garden into a warm blanket for winter.

📍 Visit Us:
Sixteen Acres Garden Center
1359 Wilbraham Road
Springfield, MA 01119

🕗 Hours: Open Daily, 8am – 5pm

📲 Download the Sixteen Acres Garden Center app here: 👉 16acresgardencenter.com/16-acres-app

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