Late autumn and early winter is a good time to remove annual and perennial weeds. A single weed pulled now can prevent hundreds of weeds from sprouting up next spring. These weeds also can harbor insects and diseases. Most weeds are covered with seeds this time of year, so pull them carefully. Follow up by covering the garden with about three inches of mulch, to discourage seeds from germinating in the spring.
Perennial weeds go dormant in the winter and return full force in the spring.
Check at your local garden center to determine what herbicide to use for your particular weed problem, and read the label carefully before using the herbicide. Do not spray it near perennial plants that you want to keep. Now also is the time to get trees and shrubs ready for cold weather and snow. If you're concerned about breakage from ice and snow buildup, support branches with stakes. But save major pruning jobs for the spring.