15 Essential fall gardening jobs to do as summer fades

Fall gardening Jobs

As the crisp autumn air settles in, your garden beckons for attention. Fall brings a unique set of tasks for gardeners, each vital for ensuring your outdoor space thrives in the coming year.

From tidying up summer’s remnants to preparing for spring’s bounty, there’s plenty to keep you busy.

Fall garden

Taking care of these essential jobs in your garden during fall will set you up for success in the seasons to come. By tackling key tasks now, you’ll not only maintain your garden’s health but also give yourself a head start when warmer weather returns.

Just a note on terminology: As an English gardener, I naturally use the word ‘autumn’ instead of ‘fall’. However, I know I have a lot of US readers who use the word ‘fall’. In this article, I’ve used both words. But I hope my US readers will forgive me for using the word ‘autumn’ more frequentlt.

Let’s explore the crucial jobs that will keep your garden in top shape as the leaves begin to change colour.

1) Pruning roses

Fall gardening jobs

Pruning roses is a key task for your autumn garden. It helps keep your plants healthy and ready for next year’s blooms.

You’ll want to start this job when the weather turns cooler and your roses stop flowering.

Begin by removing any dead, diseased, or crossing branches. Make your cuts at a 45-degree angle to stop water from pooling on the cut surface. This helps prevent rot and keeps your roses happy.

Next, focus on thinning out the centre of your rose bush. This improves air flow and reduces the risk of disease.

Don’t worry about being too harsh – roses are tough plants and can handle a good pruning. I know a rose grower who simply used to slash off the top of her (many) rose bushes with a hedge trimmer – and those roses seemed to be fine.

For climbing roses, tie in any new shoots to your supports. Cut back the side shoots to about two or three buds from the main stems. This will encourage more flowers next year.

Remember to stop deadheading your roses in autumn. Letting the final blooms develop into hips provides food for wildlife and adds winter interest to your garden.

2) Clearing fallen leaves

Fall leaves with rake

Autumn brings a blanket of colourful leaves to your garden. While they look pretty, it’s important to clear them up. Leaving too many on your lawn can harm the grass underneath.

Start by raking leaves from your lawn and pathways. You can use a traditional rake or a leaf blower if you have one.

Focus on areas where leaves tend to pile up.

Don’t throw those leaves away! They’re garden gold. Use fallen leaves in your garden as free mulch or compost.

Spread them around plants to protect roots from frost.

Consider leaving some leaves in wilder areas of your garden. These provide homes for wildlife like hedgehogs and insects over winter.

Fall leaves and the cat
The cat is not sure about the autumn leaves

If you have a lot of leaves, make leaf mould for a soil conditioner. Simply pile them up in a corner and let them break down.

In a year or two, you’ll have rich, crumbly material for your flowerbeds.

Remember to clear gutters and drains too. Leaves can block them, causing water to back up. This job is easiest if you do it regularly throughout autumn.

3) Planting spring bulbs

autumn gardening jobs - spring bulb planting

Fall is the perfect time to plant spring-flowering bulbs like tulips, daffodils, and crocuses. These beauties will reward you with a colourful display when winter fades.

Choose a spot in your garden that gets full sun to partial shade. Make sure the soil drains well to prevent bulbs from rotting.

Dig holes about two or three times as deep as the bulb’s height.

Place bulbs with the pointed end facing up. Space them according to the packet instructions. For a natural look, plant in groups rather than straight lines.

Water thoroughly after planting to help bulbs settle in. Unless you are planting into a lawn (like I was in the picture above) add a layer of mulch to protect them from harsh winter weather. This also helps retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Consider planting alliums for added interest. Their round flower heads create stunning visual effects in spring gardens. They are hardy and easy to grow.

Don’t forget about smaller bulbs like snowdrops and grape hyacinths. They’re great for naturalising in lawns or under deciduous trees.

Spring bulbs lift my mood like nothing else after a hard winter, so this is definitely one of the essential fall gardening jobs for me.

4) Mulching flower beds

Shredded bark mulch
Shredded bark mulch by Crinklecrankle.com is licensed under CC BY 2.0

Mulching your flower beds in autumn is a smart move for your garden. It helps protect plants from harsh winter weather and sets you up for success come spring.

Choose your mulch wisely. Organic mulch options like bark chips, leaf mould, or well-rotted compost work brilliantly.

These materials break down over time, enriching your soil with valuable nutrients.

Timing is key. Wait until your perennials have died back before laying mulch. This usually happens in mid to late autumn.

If you mulch too early, you might smother plants that are still growing.

Apply a layer about 5-7 cm thick around your plants. Be careful not to pile mulch against plant stems or tree trunks, as this can cause rot.

Mulching now saves you time in spring when your garden to-do list is already long.

It also helps retain moisture in the soil and suppresses weeds, giving your plants a head start when they wake up from their winter sleep.

5) Trimming hedges

Well trimmed hedge
Well-trimmed hedge – Photo by Mark Hadley is licensed under CC BY 2.0

Fall is the perfect time to trim your hedges. Pruning now helps shape your garden and keeps it tidy through winter.

Start by checking your tools. Make sure your shears or hedge trimmers are clean and sharp.

This makes cutting easier and prevents damage to your plants.

When trimming, aim for a slight taper. The bottom should be wider than the top. This lets sunlight reach all parts of the hedge, keeping it healthy and full.

Be careful not to cut too much. Take off small amounts at a time. You can always trim more, but you can’t put it back once it’s gone.

If you have flowering hedges, check when they bloom. If they flower in spring, wait until after they have finished flowering to trim. This ensures you don’t accidentally remove next year’s buds.

Remember to clean up after trimming. Rake up the clippings and add them to your compost bin, shredding them first if you can.

This keeps your garden neat and gives you free mulch for later.

Trimming hedges might seem tricky, but with practice, you’ll soon master the art.

6) Cleaning garden tools

garden tools
A selection of my gardening power tools

Fall is the perfect time to give your garden tools some TLC. Clean tools work better and last longer. Plus, they help keep your plants healthy.

Start by brushing off dirt and debris. Use a stiff brush or old rag to remove caked-on soil. For stubborn muck, try a paste of baking soda and water.

Next, wash your tools with soapy water. Fill a bucket with warm water and washing-up liquid. Let them soak for about 30 minutes.

Then, scrub gently and rinse thoroughly.

Don’t forget to dry your tools well. Moisture can lead to rust. Use an old towel or leave them in the sun to air dry.

For metal parts, consider applying a light coat of oil. This helps prevent rust over winter. A drop of vegetable oil on a cloth works brilliantly.

Lastly, sharpen any blades. Sharp tools make gardening easier and are safer to use. A file or whetstone can do the job nicely.

Remember to clean your shed or storage area too. Tidy spaces make finding tools a breeze when spring arrives.

7) Harvesting late crops

fall gardening jobs

Fall is the perfect time to gather the fruits of your labour. Many edible food plants ripen as the days grow shorter, offering a bountiful harvest for your kitchen.

Check your garden daily for vegetables ready to pick. Look for fully grown courgettes, ripe tomatoes, and plump squash. You’ll want to harvest these before the first frost arrives.

Don’t forget about root vegetables. Carrots are an excellent choice for the fall garden and can withstand frosty temperatures. Gently dig them up when their tops start to wilt.

Leafy greens like kale and spinach often taste sweeter after a light frost. Pick these leaves regularly to encourage more growth. You can enjoy fresh salads well into autumn.

Herbs are another late-season treat. Snip basil, parsley, and cilantro/coriander to dry or freeze for winter use. These flavourful additions will brighten up your cold-weather cooking.

Remember to store your harvest properly. Some vegetables, like onions and potatoes, need cool, dark places. Others, such as tomatoes, prefer room temperature. With proper care, you can enjoy your garden’s bounty for months to come.

8) Protecting tender plants

fall gardening jobs - tender plants

As autumn arrives, you need to shield your delicate plants from chilly nights. Start by bringing potted tender plants indoors. Place them near windows for light, but away from draughts.

For plants that can’t be moved, cover them with horticultural fleece or bubble wrap. This creates a cosy barrier against frost. Remember to remove these covers during sunny days to prevent overheating.

Consider building a cold frame or mini greenhouse for extra protection. These structures trap warmth and shield plants from wind and rain. You can make a simple cold frame using old windows or plastic sheeting.

Mulch around the base of plants with straw or leaves. This insulates roots and keeps soil warmer. Be careful not to pile mulch directly against plant stems, as this can lead to rot.

Water plants less frequently in autumn, but ensure the soil doesn’t dry out completely. Moist soil retains heat better than dry soil, offering some protection against frost.

9) Planting winter vegetables

winter vegetables

Fall is the perfect time to plant cold-hardy vegetables for your winter garden. You can enjoy fresh produce even in chilly weather with the right choices.

Kale is a brilliant option for your winter plot. This tough green can handle temperatures as low as -15°C and tastes even better after a frost. Plant it now and harvest throughout the colder months.

Carrots are another great pick for your autumn planting. They’re easy to grow and can withstand frosty conditions. Make sure to work your soil deeply and mix in plenty of compost before sowing.

Garlic is best planted in autumn in colder areas. Pop the cloves in the ground 4 to 6 weeks before it freezes. This gives them time to set roots before winter hits.

Don’t forget about quick-growing salad greens. Leaf lettuces are ready to cut in just 45 to 50 days. You can harvest looseleaf and butterhead varieties at any stage of growth.

Remember to choose veggies that mature quickly and can handle the cold. With a bit of planning, you’ll have a thriving winter garden full of tasty, fresh produce.

10) Feeding the soil

Soil Texture - digging the soil

Autumn is the perfect time to nourish your garden soil. Empty your compost bins and spread the finished compost over your garden beds. This nutrient-rich material will feed the soil throughout winter.

You can also add other organic matter to your beds. Spread a layer of well-rotted manure, leaf mould, or garden compost. Work it into the top few inches of soil with a fork or tiller.

Consider planting a green manure crop. Sow fast-growing plants like clover or rye grass. They’ll protect the soil over winter and add nutrients when dug in come spring.

Don’t forget about mulch. A layer of organic mulch helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. It also breaks down slowly, feeding the soil as it does so.

By feeding your soil now, you’re setting the stage for a thriving garden next year. Your plants will thank you with robust growth and bountiful harvests.

11) Deadheading flowers

deadheads
Deadheads by TarynMarie is licensed under CC BY-NC-ND 2.0

Deadheading is a vital autumn task for your garden. It’s the process of removing faded or dead flowers from your plants. This simple job can make a big difference to how your garden looks and performs.

When you deadhead, you encourage your plants to keep flowering. Many plants will push out new blooms if you snip off the old ones. This means you can enjoy more colour in your garden for longer.

To deadhead, simply pinch or cut off the spent flower just below its base. Be careful not to damage any new buds that might be forming nearby. For roses, cut at a 45-degree angle above an outward-facing stem.

Not all plants need deadheading, though. Some have attractive seed pods that add interest to your autumn and winter garden. It’s best to leave these be.

Regular deadheading keeps your garden tidy and stops plants wasting energy on seeds. It’s a quick and easy job that can make a real difference to your autumn garden’s appearance.

12) Maintaining the compost heap

wooden compost bins

Keeping your compost heap in good shape is key for a thriving autumn garden. You’ll want to reduce how often you turn the pile as the weather cools. Once a month is plenty in fall and winter.

Make sure you’ve got the right mix of materials. Aim for a 3:1 ratio of brown to green items. Brown stuff includes dry leaves and twigs, while green items are things like grass clippings and veg peelings.

Water is crucial for good compost. Your heap should feel like a damp sponge. If it’s too dry, give it a sprinkle. If it’s soggy, add some dry brown materials.

Keep adding to your heap through autumn. Fallen leaves are brilliant for composting. Shred them first if you can – they’ll break down faster that way.

As the temperature drops, your compost will slow down. Don’t worry, this is normal. Come spring, you’ll have lovely rich compost to use in your garden.

13) Dividing perennials

dividing perennials

Fall is the perfect time to divide many perennials in your garden. This task helps rejuvenate your plants and creates new ones for free.

Start by identifying which perennials need dividing. Look for plants that have outgrown their space or have bare patches in the centre. Good candidates include black-eyed Susans, Heleniums and Geraniums

To divide, use a garden spade or fork to dig around the plant’s root ball. Gently lift the entire plant out of the ground. You might need a friend’s help for larger specimens.

Once out, shake off excess soil and look for natural divisions in the root system. Use your hands or a sharp knife to separate the plant into smaller sections. Each division should have healthy roots and several stems.

Replant the divisions quickly to prevent the roots from drying out. Water them well and add a layer of mulch to help them settle in before winter.

Remember, not all perennials like being divided in autumn. Spring-flowering plants often prefer spring division. When in doubt, research the specific needs of your plant varieties.

Dividing perennials is a brilliant way to refresh your garden and share plants with friends. It’s a satisfying job that will reward you with a fuller, healthier garden next year.

14) Storing garden furniture

Antique garden furniture
Antique garden furniture by Crinklecrankle.com is licensed under CC BY 2.0

As autumn approaches, it’s time to think about protecting your outdoor furniture. Proper storage will keep your garden pieces in top shape for years to come.

First, give everything a good clean. Use warm, soapy water and a soft brush to remove dirt and grime. Rinse thoroughly and let dry completely before storing.

For wooden furniture, apply a protective oil or sealant. This will help prevent moisture damage over winter. Metal pieces might benefit from a coat of car wax to ward off rust.

If you have space in a shed or garage, that’s ideal for storing garden furniture. Stack chairs and fold tables to save room. Cover items with old sheets or purpose-made furniture covers to keep dust off.

No indoor space? No problem. You can leave sturdy pieces outside if you protect them properly. Invest in weatherproof covers that fit snugly. Secure them well to prevent wind damage.

Store fabric cushions indoors if possible. They’ll last much longer away from damp conditions. If you must leave them out, use waterproof storage boxes.

Remember to elevate furniture off the ground if storing outside. This prevents water pooling underneath and causing damage.

15) Checking for pests

Orange slug
Orange slug by Guillaume Brocker/Gbrocker is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0

Fall is a good time to look for pests in your garden. Many insects and critters like to hide away as the weather gets colder.

You should check your plants carefully for any signs of trouble.

Look under leaves and along stems for tiny bugs or eggs. Keep an eye out for holes in leaves or strange spots. These could mean pests are present.

Don’t forget to check your greenhouse or polytunnel if you have one. Clean these areas thoroughly to stop pests from setting up home for winter. This will help your plants stay healthier.

If you find any pests, take action right away. Remove them by hand or use a gentle spray. It’s best to sort out pest problems now before they get worse over winter.

Remember to check your stored plants too. Bulbs and tubers can attract pests while they’re tucked away. Give them a quick look to make sure they’re pest-free.

Fall garden

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