Do It Now

Perennials

- Finish cleanup, including pulling still-growing weeds.

- Cut back late-blooming mums.

- Leave the ornamental grasses for winter interest.

- Spread compost or fertilizer such as 5-10-5 on perennial beds. It will work into the soil over the winter.

- Continue planting bulbs as long as weather permits.

- To keep voles away from tulips, add a handful of crushed gravel to the hole.

Fruits and vegetables

- Clean up fallen leaves under fruit trees to prevent overwintering disease.

- Protect tree trunks from mouse and vole damage with wire mesh trunk guards.

- Incorporate lime and fertilizer into the vegetable garden.

Flowers

- Continue potting up bulbs for spring forcing.

- Start paperwhites and amaryllis.

Trees and shrubs

- Spray broad-leaved evergreens with antidessicant to prevent the loss of moisture. Apply when temperature is above 40 degrees.

- Make a note of shrubs and trees that hold on to colorful leaves until late fall. They are pleasing to the eye as the sky turns gray.

Lawns

- The last mowing should be under 2 inches.

- Prepare for fertilizing around Thanksgiving weekend.

Houseplants

- Keep amaryllis in a bright light. Water sparingly until foliage emerges and more often when flowering stalks appear.

Susan Henry, Master Gardener