For most fruits, flavor is the best indicator of ripeness, although color change also can be a good indicator. However, pears are best ripened off the tree, and grapes change color long before they are fully flavored, so sample the fruit to be sure. Remove raspberry canes after they bear fruit. To promote the lawn's recovery from summer stress, apply high-nitrogen fertilizer at the rate of 1 pound actual nitrogen per 1,000 square feet. Reseed bare spots or new lawns using a good-quality seed mixture.
Early fall is a good time to apply broadleaf weed killers.
Be sure to follow all label directions, and choose a calm day to prevent spray drift. Dig onions and garlic after tops fall over naturally and necks begin to dry. Plant radishes, green onion sets, lettuce and spinach for fall harvest. Thin fall crops such as lettuce and carrots that were planted earlier. Mature green tomatoes can be ripened indoors.