Planting

• Trees and shrubs can be transplanted in the autumn.
• Plant one year old asparagus crowns in the vegetable garden this month.
• Finish planting spring-flowering bulbs.

Pruning

• Time to trim existing asparagus foliage. Cut to the ground after the foliage is killed by frost.
• Cut back and clean up frost-killed perennials.
• When cutting holiday greener, use sharp pruners to make cuts above a bud or side branch.
• Prune out older canes on blackberries and raspberries.
• Do NOT prune shrubs in September, October, or November

Spraying

• None

Lawn Care

• Mow your cool season or tall fescue lawn as needed.
• Keep tree leaves from collecting on your lawn.

Propagation

• Water your cuttings in the coldframe as needed.
• You may want to try your hand at air layering on some of your house plants like dieffenbachia or dumb cane.

Specific Chores

• Soil test results should be back if samples were sent in September or October. Apply the recommended lime to the areas in need of liming. Wait until spring to fertilize.
• Remember that peak season soil test fees begin December 1, so get your samples in early this month to avoid the fee.
• Check with the local Extension office for the recommended fruit varieties for the area.
• Order fruit trees and grape vines this month for a February or March delivery and planting.
• Remember to water your evergreen trees and shrubs thoroughly before winter set in, particularly if weather conditions have been dry.
• Look to see if screens or windbreaks are needed around your home.
• Continue filling the compost bin with the fallen leaves.
• Look for yuletide plants as gifts. Remember, some plants like poinsettias should be placed in the sunniest room in the house.
• Consider giving your family gardener a holiday gift to use in the garden.