Prepping for Winter

     With cold fall nights coming more frequently, it is time to start to think about preparing your summer garden for winter.  I start this process late in October or early in November.  Usually around the time I switch the thermostat on!     There are several tasks that I perform before winter arrives. Below is my typical to do list.

 1. The first is preparing any winter crops that may be in the garden such as Brussels sprouts, leeks, kale, etc.  I clean out any weeds around them and mulch them well to protect from the cold temperatures until they are ready for harvesting.  

2.  I then begin to tackle all fall leaves and weeds that have accumulated in my garden.  The leaves will be added to the compost pile, taking care not to add seeds as well.  Be sure to grab any crops you may have missed earlier!

3.  Another necessary job however daunting it may be is to clean out the never ending rocks. These just seem to multiply!  Once this is done, I then till the soil.  Doing this will help to cut down on the growth in the spring.  

4.  It is important to test your soil and see where everything stands.  If the soil is lacking nutrients, an option would be to plant a ground cover.  There are many to choose from, a couple reliable choices would be winter rye or winter wheat.  Come spring this will be tilled under.  If the soil test is fine, I will still add some organic compost and till into the soil.

5.  Now is a good time to take a moment and plan out your garden for the upcoming planting season.  If necessary, this is the time to expand and begin to prep the soil for spring.  The easiest way to accomplish this is with a rototiller.  Not everyone has access to this tool, and may need to use a spade.  My family and I have such a large garden and wonderful neighbors that bring their horses and plow over to help us break ground!  Once broken, remember to add compost and till in the soil.

 6.  Finally, don't forget to clean up all of those great tools that help us out each season.  Repair the ones that may need it and wash and store the rest.  Rubbing linseed oil on your wooden handles will help to keep them protected and prolong the life of your tools.  Wash and store all tomato cages and any trellis you may have.  Don't forget your hoses at cleanup time, drain and store them from the harsh elements of winter too!  

     With the fall garden work now done, you can now sit back and relax and dream of what is to come in the spring!