If your yard is like mine, there seems to be a constant bombardment of leaves from overhanging trees. This year instead of spending hours raking and hauling leaves, try to mulch as many as possible with the mower. If you blow all the leaves toward the center of the yard they will be chopped several times and break down more rapidly. This not only saves time but also adds important nutrients back to the lawn. If leaves are raked, try composting them to spread on the garden next year.
Cold winds can tear at the stems and cause damage to root systems.
Roses should be cut back to the three or four strongest canes to a height of 18 to 24 inches. Make sure your cuts are clean and the canes you choose to leave all arise from above the graft union. This month is the ideal time in the Upper and Middle South to start planting bulbs for a beautiful spring show. Crocuses, daffodils, tulips, and hyacinths may all be set out now. Since the bulbs are growing roots this time of year, fertilizing the soil will boost their growth.