October Tips & Checklist

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Learn about average first and last frost dates around the state.
Consider adding a smaller structure such as a low tunnel or a larger high tunnel to extend your growing season. Try looking at different construction and modification information
Learn how and when to harvest winter squash. Store winter squash in a cool, (50-55°F) dry location.
Plant garlic cloves from mid-October through early November.
Refer to this list of fall cleanup chores and good landscape practices to get your yard ready for winter.
Remove vegetable plants from the garden once harvest is complete to reduce overwintering sites for insect pests.
Protect tomatoes from early frost by covering the plants with a blanket or tarp.
Rototill leaves, compost and/or manure into the vegetable garden to enhance the soil microbe activity.
Prune roses by heading back excessively long canes to prevent damage from heavy snow loads.
Cut back ornamental grasses in snow prone areas once the foliage has dried down, otherwise leave them until spring and enjoy the vertical accent during winter.
Plant spring blooming bulbs through early November.
Plant trees and shrubs in the fall to enhance root establishment.
Dig tender perennials such as gladiolas, dahlias, begonias and canna lilies after the foliage has died down and store them in a cool, (45-50 °F) dry location.
Protect trunks of young trees from winter cracking by wrapping them with a white reflective tree wrap.
Dig and remove annual flower plantings.
Plant cold-hardy annuals, including pansies, primrose, kale, and ornamental cabbage.
Prune raspberry canes to the ground after they have fruited.
Control tough perennial weeds such as field bindweed (a.k.a. morning glory). Refer to this list of weed control options.
Mow grass to a height of 1-to-1½ inches at the end of the season to minimize disease problems.
Apply a quick-release nitrogen fertilizer after the last mowing (late October to early November) for early greening next spring.
Pests and Problems:
Send diseased vegetable plants and leaves to the local landfill.
Use burlap or other soft materials to wrap evergreens to prevent snow breakage.
Treat stone fruits (cherries, peaches, nectarines, apricots and plums) for coryneum blight at 50% leaf drop.
Clean up and discard all fallen fruit to reduce overwintering sites for disease and insect pests.
Gardener's Almanac Monthly Gardening Checklist
Gardening advice and checklists that are broken down by every month of the year. This gardener's almanac provides gardening tips exactly when you need them.
Trouble viewing Bloom Gardens Magazine? Go to: https://bloomgardens.org/magazine/fall-2026/
Featured in this Issue:

*Woodstuff Landscape Supply
955 S 1950 W Springville Utah 84663
(801) 489-4777
The Sustainable Garden Newsletter is provided by Bloom Gardens
Happy Gardening!
Ramona
Bloom Gardens www.bloomgardens.org


