� Late fall fertilization with a 50% slow release nitrogen fertilizer
� Final mowing lower than the summer, about 2 inches, to reduce potential fungal problems in late winter/early spring
� Remove leaves to avoid smothering the grass
� Lawns can be topdressed with compost � not more than 1/8 of an inch
� Winterize irrigation systems

� Fall planting should be completed as soon as possible
� Make sure there is adequate soil moisture before ground freezes
� Beds can be mulched once ground begins to freeze
� Protect tender plants and evergreens most susceptible to cold, drying winds using barriers or protective sprays
� Dormant oils for overwintering mites and insect pests can be applied but should be applied when temperatures are above 40 degrees
� Contact your local extension office for a Pick-Your-Own Christmas Tree brochure

� There is still time to dig up tender bulbs, rhizomes and tuberous roots such as Dahlias, Cannas, and tuberous Begonias
� Trim back dead stems of herbaceous perennials
� Do not trim the inflorescences (flower stalks) of ornamental grasses since they provide winter interest
� Frost has probably killed many of the annuals and can be removed and placed in the compost pile
� Certain annuals can be tender perennials like dusty miller and survive mild winters
� Mulch beds (3-4 inches) after ground begins to freeze to prevent thawing and heaving of perennials and biennials

� Harvest cool season crops like cabbage, cauliflower, broccoli, spinach, kale and turnips � these can also be found at your local farm market
� Finish the garden clean-up and plant a cover crop
� Mulch (straw, salt hay, leaves, etc.) overwintering vegetables and herbs like beets, parsnips, rosemary, lavender, and thyme.

Houseplants

� Monitor plants for insect problems if they were outside this summer
� Avoid excessive fertilization of plants � it is a time of rest for many plants
� Provide light and moisture according to the needs of each plant. For example, holiday cactus prefer cool, bright area with minimal water requirements
� Minimize the plant�s exposure to temperature extremes � cold and heat