As temperatures drop and days get shorter, November is a month to wrap up essential garden maintenance and prepare your plants for the winter months. Whether you’re managing a cozy indoor garden or maintaining outdoor spaces, here are some key tasks to focus on this month.
What to do in the garden in November
1. Protect Outdoor Plants from Frost
As frost becomes more frequent, it’s crucial to protect vulnerable outdoor plants. Cover sensitive plants with frost cloth or burlap to prevent damage, especially overnight. Mulching around the base of perennials can also help insulate roots, keeping the soil temperature more stable.
2. Prep the Soil for Spring
After the final harvest, add compost or organic matter to your garden beds to improve soil health. Turning over the soil in vegetable patches and flower beds also helps control pests and aerate the soil, making it ready for spring planting.
3. Take Care of Fallen Leaves
Rake fallen leaves to prevent disease and pests, especially in lawns and paths. Consider composting leaves or using them as mulch in flower beds. Chopped leaves can also provide insulation and protection for delicate plants.
4. Clean and Store Gardening Tools
With many gardening tasks winding down, take the time to clean and sharpen your tools. Properly storing clean tools can prevent rust and damage, ensuring they’re in good condition when you need them again in spring.
5. Prune Trees and Shrubs
Late autumn is an ideal time to prune deciduous trees and shrubs once they’re dormant. Remove any dead or damaged branches and shape them as needed. Avoid pruning spring-flowering shrubs, as they’ll have already set buds for next year’s blooms.
6. Tend to Indoor Plants
Indoor plants often need less water as the air becomes cooler and drier. Adjust watering schedules to avoid overwatering, and consider adding a humidity tray or misting to compensate for indoor heating that dries the air. Check plants for pests, as lower indoor humidity can attract spider mites and other common pests.
7. Plant Spring Bulbs
November is one of the last chances to plant spring bulbs like tulips, daffodils, and crocuses before the ground freezes. Plant bulbs at the appropriate depth and cover them with a layer of mulch to protect them over the winter. They’ll reward you with a beautiful display when spring arrives.
8. Start Winter Vegetables
In mild climates, November is a great time to start winter vegetables like garlic, onions, and shallots. Use cold frames or row covers to protect seedlings and extend the growing season.
9. Inspect Garden Structures
Check garden structures, such as trellises, fences, and raised beds, for any needed repairs. November is a good time to fix or reinforce these elements, as winter weather can exacerbate small issues.
10. Prepare Bird Feeders and Water Sources
In many areas, birds rely on supplementary food and water sources during the winter months. Clean and refill feeders regularly, and ensure that birdbaths have fresh water, adding a heater if needed to prevent freezing.
In addition to these tasks, keep a garden journal to record plant conditions, weather changes, and any adjustments for next year. A bit of prep now can make a big difference, ensuring your garden remains healthy through winter and comes back vibrant in spring.