- Consider planting cover crops to provide “green manure” to the garden.
- Collect and store seeds from your garden.
- Learn about how and when to harvest watermelon and cantaloupe.
- Harvest potatoes as soon as tubers begin forming.
- Harvest garlic and onions once the tops have dried down. Allow them to cure (dry) for 2-3 weeks before storing.
- Store potatoes, garlic and onions in a cool/dry location (32-40°F) away from apples.
- Plant trees and shrubs as the weather becomes cooler.
- Go hiking in the hills to enjoy autumn colors.
- Divide crowded, spring-blooming perennials.
- Consider composting fall leaves.
- Check pears for ripeness once the fruit twists off the tree easily and seeds are dark colored, and allow them to finish ripening off the tree.
- Apply a slow-release lawn fertilizer early in September to provide long-lasting results throughout the fall months.
- Remember that as temperatures cool, turfgrass requires minimal irrigation each week. See irrigation needs in your area.
- Plant new lawns or repair insect/diseased areas with grass seed, allowing 4-6 weeks for establishment before heavy frosts.
- Aerate compacted sites with a hollow core aerator when turfgrass is actively growing (September – October).
Pests and Problems:
- Control raspberry crown borer using a root drench during late summer or early fall.
- Learn about what causes Bitter pit and other problems in apples.
- Control rust mites in apple and pear trees after harvest fruit and before leaf drop.
- Watch for boxelder bugs congregating on sunny surfaces during the fall months
- Monitor for damaging turfgrass insects.
- Subscribe to the Utah Pests IPM Advisories for timely tips on controlling pests in your yard and garden.