Chores include turning off sprinklers
We’re entering that time of year when the gardener gets to slow down and just let things be. But before we get too settled, here are some chores that need doing.
• Don’t be that person whose sprinklers are on during a rainstorm. Now is the time to turn off your irrigation systems. Rain or not, keep an eye on your plants to make sure they’re getting enough water, or are getting too much.
• If you created summer watering basins, now is the time to remove them. You don’t want standing water around trees and shrubs, which can cause root or crown rot.
• As temperatures dip toward freezing overnight, take steps to protect frosttender plants. Be sure to check the weather for frost warnings. It doesn’t take a lot to protect plants. If they are in pots, move them close to your house, where they can take advantage of the radiated heat. You also can build lightweight frames and covers that can quickly be put over the plants and then removed during the day. Old-fashioned Christmas lights also can keep plants warm.
• Avoid walking on your soil when it is wet. Those steps will compact the soil and make it difficult to till in the spring, and can damage plants nearby.
• Clean up all garden beds and compost spent garden plants, or chop them up and allow them to compost in place. If it’s raining, cover your compost piles to prevent them from getting too wet and cold.
• Too cold and rainy to go outside? Stay in and order your spring garden seeds.