The Ultimate Fall Checklist for a Flourishing Garden

by Sue Long

Fall is one of the best times to improve your lawn, trees, shrubs, and garden. The basic maintenance you do during this "second spring" after summer will pay off in healthier growth and fewer problems next spring and summer. And because soils are still warm despite the falling temperatures, the weeks ahead are an ideal time to put many plants into the ground, no matter where you live.

1. Fertilize

2. Eliminate broadleaf weeds

3. Continue mowing

4. Seed or overseed

5. Dethatch & aerate

6. Water your lawn thoroughly

7. Plant trees, shrubs, and vines

8. Water

9. Pruning

10. Plant bulbs

11. Plant cool-season annuals

12. Protect roses