Here's my top tasks to put your garden to the bed until Spring.
Remove, clean, store plant supports and labels.
Cleaning plant supports and labels will prevent disease spread. Storing them out of the elements through the winter will prolong the life of your tools.
Pull and pitch plant debris.
There's something cathartic about pulling out those dead plants at the end of the season, am I right?! You can compost those plants or pitch them in the trash. I
Add compost and other soil amendments.
I love adding a couple bags of compost from the big box stores to my raised beds every Fall. I don't get too picky, I just go with whatever they have on the shelf. But doing it now, it means I am ready to plant straight away in the late winter with my cool season crops.
Turn soil and add mulch.
When I add compost, I lightly incorporate it into the soil in the beds. Then, I'll often add leaves to cover the soil all winter. Leaves are free, available, and a great source of nutrients!
Plant Fall bulbs - my favorites are tulips and daffodils.
You can find a plethora of them at the big box stores right now. Plant them 4-6" deep and about 2-3" apart in a sunny area.
And that's it! Don't have a lot of time? That's okay - this only takes about 20 minutes. The best part is you will be able get straight to planting towards the end of the winter. Yes, winter. Those cold tolerant plants want to be planted in late February - early March.
If this sounds overwhelming, then let me make it easy for you! Check out the Busy Mom's Guide to Cutting Gardens where I explain the difference between "Cool Season and Warm Season" flowers and when you should plant them! The guide will walk you through every step of the way, from seed to bloom and even how to arrange them! I even have supply links, planting guides, and my favorite places to buy from.
The benefit of getting the Guide now is you have all winter to learn and, even better, SHOP! Picking out flower varieties and colors is my favorite winter pastime. Especially when it's 12 degrees outside and I can dream about sunny summer flowery days!
Let's get growing!
Sincerely,
Megan
Rudy Lane Flower Farm
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