Natural fall gardening tips to set you up for a great spring

Fall is finally here it seems. And as the season changes, it’s a great time to prepare your yard and garden for the cooler months ahead.

Laura Matter, Program Director for Tilth Alliance’s Natural Yard Care program, says fall is one of the most important times of year for gardeners to take action.

“Mulching or making sure the bare soil is covered is important,” she says. “If you don't do that, you're going to get weeds. It also helps keep the soil from getting compacted by the rain.”

People can use mulch, burlap or plant coverings to protect soil and keep weeds at bay. There’s still time to plant a cover crop like annual rye grass, or even put those fallen leaves to good use by spreading them over flower beds and vegetable gardens.

Speaking of leaves, Matter says it’s important to keep them off lawns and out of storm drains. They can block the sun from grass or clog up storm drains and cause minor flooding if left on the ground, she explains.

Fall is also a good time to add new trees or shrubs, or to think about plants that can support wildlife through the winter months.

“Keep in mind overwintering bird residents, and think about plants that can feed these birds,” says Matter. “Planting and leaving a little bit of wildness is good for them.”

And if you’re wondering whether it’s worth the effort to tend your yard this late in the year, Matter’s answer is a definitive yes.

“There’s lots to do still,” she says. “And if you do these things now, you set yourself up for spring and have less to do then.”

Learn more

This fall, the Garden Hotline is offering classes on mushroom season, indoor gardening, and more. More information can also be found by visiting their website. Folks can also call 206-633-0224 to speak with a garden expert anytime between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday, except holidays.

Dispose of hazardous products safely

And while you’re tidying up, remember that some yard and garden products may contain hazardous chemicals. Products labeled CAUTION, WARNING, POISON, or DANGER can be harmful to you, your pets, and the environment.

Pesticides, fungicides, herbicides, slug bait, and other garden chemicals are accepted at King County hazardous waste collection sites. Professional-grade pesticides, however, are not accepted.

If you’re unsure about what to do with something, call the Haz Waste Line at 206-296-4692 or email haz.waste@kingcounty.gov for help finding safe disposal options. The Haz Waste Line is also open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday, except on holidays.