Putting the Garden to Bed: Fall Cleanup Checklist

As the growing season winds down, it’s time to prepare your garden for a well-deserved rest. Fall cleanup not only keeps your landscape looking tidy but also sets the stage for a healthier, more vibrant garden next spring. At The Country Barn in Elkton, Kentucky, we recommend following a few simple steps to clear out spent plants, cut back perennials, and protect your soil before winter arrives.

Clear Out Annuals

Start by removing annuals that have finished blooming. While it’s tempting to leave them for color, dying plants can harbor pests and diseases. Pull them up, compost the healthy ones, and discard any that look diseased. This creates a clean slate for spring planting and reduces problems next season.

Cut Back Perennials

Most perennials benefit from a good trim in the fall. Cut back spent foliage to a few inches above the ground, removing any dead or diseased material. Some, like ornamental grasses or coneflowers, can be left standing through winter for visual interest and to provide food and shelter for wildlife. Always check your specific plants’ needs before cutting.

Protect the Soil

Healthy soil is the foundation of every successful garden. After cleanup, spread a layer of compost or shredded leaves over your garden beds to improve soil structure and add nutrients. A final layer of mulch—about two to three inches thick—helps insulate roots, suppress weeds, and prevent erosion during winter.

Bonus Tips

• Empty and store garden containers to prevent cracking in freezing temperatures.

• Drain and store hoses and irrigation lines.

• Clean and sharpen garden tools before putting them away.

• Plant spring bulbs now for early-season color next year.

FAQ

Q: When is the best time to start fall cleanup?
A: Begin after the first frost when most plants have stopped actively growing but before the ground freezes.

Q: Should I cut back all perennials in the fall?
A: Not all—leave seed heads and grasses that provide winter interest or wildlife habitat, but remove diseased or mushy foliage.

Q: How thick should my mulch layer be?
A: Two to three inches is ideal. Avoid piling mulch directly against plant crowns or stems to prevent rot.

Q: Can I compost my fall leaves?
A: Yes! Shredded leaves make excellent compost and can also be used as a protective mulch layer over garden beds.

Visit The Country Barn at 112 Britmart Road in Elkton, Kentucky for everything you need to prepare your garden for winter. We’re open Monday through Saturday from 8 AM to 6 PM and closed on Sundays. You can also give us a call at (270) 265-9002. Whether you’re picking up mulch, soil, and compost or enjoying a warm drink and a bite to eat at The Country Boy, you’ll find that The Country Barn is worth the drive from any distance.