Compost debris before it begins to harbor pests and diseases. Do not put quack grass, diseased plants or weed seeds on a compost pile, as they may germinate there. Do a final weeding to remove weeds before they go to seed and spread. Dead twigs and branches on Western red cedars, arborvitae and some pines are normal at this time of year. This flagging is a response to cool temperatures and moisture stress.
Green firewood can harbor beetles that pose a threat to garden trees.
Eliminate beetles by piling wood into stacks no more than 4 feet high, wide and deep. Cover each stack with a clear plastic sheet. Rototill or dig compost, rotted sawdust, manure and other organic matter into the soil. Fairly warm temperatures this month will give these additions a chance to begin breaking down before the ground freezes. Tomatoes don't need the sun to ripen.