- Run mowers until they are out of gas to prevent issues with starting next spring.
- Sharpen and clean garden tools and store for the winter.
- Do not prune spring blooming evergreens like rhododendron and azaleas as some flower buds will be lost.
- Do not plant evergreen shrubs now as they do not have time to develop strong roots before possible ground freeze. Winter damage can result from late season planting of evergreens.
- Order seed catalogues now and consider ordering early while most seeds are available.
- Water newly planted trees and shrubs as needed before the ground freezes.
- Mulch perennials that are susceptible to winter kill after the ground freezes.
- Protect any shrubs that are susceptible to winter wind damage, like rhododendrons and cherry laurels. A breathable light-colored fabric can be stapled to a frame and secured to the ground on the windward side of these shrubs.
- Check any stored bulbs and tubers every two weeks to make sure they are not rotting. If tubers, like dahlias, are shriveling, mist lightly with water.
- Certain fruit trees can be pruned during the winter but research any temperature limitations that may apply for the variety of tree.
- If voles are an issue during the winter, put wire grid barrier material around the base of shrubs or small trees that voles may damage.
Courtesy of the UConn Home & Garden Education Center. Click here to read the entire newsletter.
