The weather in the Northwest has suddenly turned cool.  Thoughts of sweaters, blankets and fires are suddenly filling my mind.  I truly love the autumn season and look forward to the crispness in the air and the brightly colored leaves.  As we anticipate this new season we have much to look forward to.  However, before you plop down in front of that fire there are some annual chores that need to be done in your yard and garden.

Here are a few suggestions of things that you can begin to accomplish in the early part of the season so that you won’t be caught unaware when the cold weather truly hits.  We are still getting produce and flowers from the garden so it’s not time to throw in the towel.  We just want to start the process so that it will be easier to complete everything.

Preparing your Garden for the Winter to come (Early Season):

1. Assess your garden’s success for the year.  What grew well and what was a bust?  Did your pots of annuals have too much sun or too much shade?  Did you damage a few tools that will need to be replaced?  Will you need to add in more garden beds next year?  What kind of pests did you struggle with?  Answering these questions now can help you as you plan for next year’s flower beds and garden space.  Plus you can buy your  replacement tools now when they are on clearance.
2. Shop for spring bulbs now if you didn’t order them earlier in the season.  You will need to plant them before the ground freezes.  Also, if you wait too long, you might not find a good selection of your favorites like crocus, tulips and daffodils.
3. Take a look at your garden furniture.  Are your cushions faded and torn?  Did your favorite chair get damaged or is it time to replace the set.  By deciding now what you need for next year, you can begin to keep your eyes open for out of season bargains.
4. Clean out your shed and get it ready to store your garden supplies.  Recycle those plastic containers and clean up the spilled potting soil.  Create a storage area for your tools.  When it’s time to drag in the furniture and tools you will be ready to go

Now is the time to enjoy the seasonal changes. It won’t be long before it will be too cold to sit on your deck or patio.   Make the most of these shorter days.  Have coffee on the porch,  sit in your garden at dusk and watch the birds or invite a few friends over to enjoy a backyard fire. This transitional time between the warm summer months and the cooler autumn temperatures is a good time to reflect on all that you enjoyed in your garden and shed for the year.  It’s also a time to begin mentally preparing for the winter to come.

If you would like more suggestions on preparing your garden for Winter you can sign up for my email and receive a free copy of my “Get Your Garden Ready for Winter Checklist”.  It has suggestions for Early, Mid and Late Season activities as well as a place to jot down notes.   Now is the time to prepare for the cold season to come.