Cuttings of annuals can be taken now to provide vigorous plants for overwintering.
Except tulips, spring bulbs may be planted as soon as they are available. Tulips should be kept in a cool, dark place and planted in late October.
Mid-month begin readying houseplants for winter indoors. Prune back rampant growth and protruding roots. Check for pests and treat if necessary. Houseplants should be brought indoors at least one month before the heat is normally turned on.
Cool-season lawns are best fertilized in fall. Make up to 3 applications between now and December. Do not exceed rates recommended by fertilizer manufacturer.
Begin fall seeding or sodding of cool-season grasses. Seedbeds should be raked, dethatched or core-aerified, fertilized and seeded. Keep newly planted lawn areas moist, but not wet.
Newly seeded lawns should not be cut until they are at least 2 or 3 inches tall.
Sowing seeds of radish, lettuce, spinach and other greens in a cold frame will prolong fall harvests.
Harvest herbs now to freeze or dry for winter use.
Seasonal loss of inner needles on conifers is normal at this time. It may be especially noticeable on pines.
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