How to Know What Early Fall Preparations are Needed for Perennials

In early September, many of us are tempted to start wintering our perennials, as the colors are fading and many blooms have gone by. But, cutting back plants too early may result in may result in damage to the plants. The goal is to allow perennials to become dormant on their own schedule, responding to shorter days and cooler nights. It's best to wait for late October or November to cut things back. If you just have to add some color NOW, planting a Garden Mum.
Early fall is a good time for other gardening related tasks.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• compost bin
• mulch
• new shrubs
• patience

1. Continue dead heading any daisy-flowered perennials, like coneflower.
   They will continue to bloom if you prevent the flowers from forming seeds.

2. Weeds need a good application of a non-selective herbicide, now--while the weather is still warm.

3. Empty your compost bin and prepare for the leaves, dead plant tops, etc., that you'll be collecting in the next few weeks. (NEVER put weeds in the compost bin.)

4. Take a picture of your gardens and re-evaluate your plantings, noting which ones might do better in a different area, or need a height placement correction. You can move plants NOW, or flag with markers, noting that a placement change is needed in the spring.

5. Buy mulch, on sale @ this time of year. Use it this fall or store it until spring.

6. This is the perfect time to find sales on fruit bearing shrubs that will add winter color to your yard. Mix with ornamental grasses for extra visual impact.

Tips & Warnings

• Plants follow their natural cycle and the cycle can't be disrupted, without paying a price. So let the garden look a little shaggy a while longer.
• This is an opportune time to edge gardens, as well as the above tasks, . So keep busy , but NO cutting back yet!