November is about protecting the landscape going into winter and finishing the season strong.
Lawn care (fescue and bermuda)
Tall fescue
- Continue mowing until growth slows. Keep the height a little higher going into winter.
- Keep leaves cleared. A clean lawn going into winter reduces disease and bare patches in spring.
Bermuda
- Bermuda is heading dormant. Keep it clean of leaves and debris.
- Avoid heavy traffic on frosty mornings when dormant grass is brittle.
Leaves and seasonal cleanup
- Stay on leaf removal. Mulch them into the lawn if leaf volume allows, or remove and compost.
- Cut back and remove diseased plant material. Leave healthy perennials that add winter structure if you like that look.
- Perform a final check of mulch levels, topping up as necessary, while consistently avoiding trunks. A good mulch layer can keep the soil warmer and protect roots.
Trees, shrubs, and planting
- Continue planting trees and shrubs through fall, as long as the ground is workable.
- Provide deep watering to new plantings during extended dry periods.
- Inspect trees for dead limbs. Winter storms find weak wood quickly, so this is a good time to schedule pruning.
Irrigation and winter preparation
- Schedule winterization for irrigation systems before hard freezes become routine.
- Disconnect and store hoses, and protect exposed spigots if needed.
