Fall Garden Checklist

Shop for bulbs. Order from catalogs or visit garden stores early for best selection.

Test Garden Tip: If deer or rabbits are a problem in your area, select pest-resistant bulbs such as daffodils, Siberian squill, and fritillaria.

Clear away debris from the base of roses. Fallen rose foliage can give diseases a safe place to overwinter and create problems in your garden next year.

Plant shrubs and evergreens. Early fall planting gives new plants enough time to get their roots established before winter.

Water, water, water. Give all of your plants a good drink, especially your trees. Their roots need plenty of moisture to make it through the upcoming months.

Amend your soil. Get the ground ready for next year's beds and your fall bulbs by tilling the soil and adding home-made compost.

Plant fall annuals. your summer blooms fade, add color to your garden with fall annuals, such as mums, pansies, and ornamental kale.