Poinsettias can be forced into bloom for Christmas if they are moved indoors to a sunny window. Each night for 8-10 weeks, they must be kept in a cool, dark place where there is no light for 14 hours. Plant garlic and shallots for next year s harvest. Fact sheet available. After crops are harvested, sow cover crops such as winter rye to increase soil fertility.
Cover crops improve soil fertility and structure.
Dig up and pot annual herbs for a winter windowsill herb garden. Prepare to cover plants from frost. The first killing frost occurs on average around October 15th. Mow, mulch, shred or compost leaves as they fall. Plant tulips, crocus, daffodils and other spring-flowering bulbs.