Keep Newly Planted Plants Watered
If you added or transplanted plants in your landscape this fall, take care to monitor their water needs. Most plants need an evenly moist soil while becoming established. This means damp like a wrung-out sponge, not bone dry and not sopping wet. Check the soil with your finger to see if you need to water; with seasonal fall rain, you may not need to supplement.
Spread Organic Mulch
Organic mulch breaks down over time and helps feed the soil. Select mulch materials depending on their local availability, cost, and/or appearance. For example, shred autumn leaves for use as mulch now or compost them into leaf mold for later use. Or purchase a variety of natural mulch materials, such as shredded or chipped bark or baled straw.
Provide Food for the Birds
Migrating songbirds will appreciate the opportunity to stop and refuel on berries in the landscape. Dogwoods, spicebush, aronia, hollies, viburnums, Eastern red cedar, and Virginia creeper can help set out the welcome mat.
Time Your Fall Planting
As the season winds down, so should planting. Roots grow until the soil temperature drops, so finish planting about six to eight weeks before the ground is expected to freeze in your area. Smaller plants with their shallow root systems are the most vulnerable to freeze and thaw damage during winter.
Plan for Colorful Fall Displays
If you like to change out your bedding plants and containers, start thinking about what you'll need for fall and where to plant them. Mums, violas, winter-hardy pansies, and colorful ornamental kale and cabbage are among the possibilities. Remember to save room for bulbs, too.