By the time November rolls around, the air has cooled, and most gardeners are putting their gardens to bed. Not sure what you should be doing in the garden this month? Keep reading for some essential tips on keeping your garden on track for continued success.

Planning. Now is a good time to reach out to our local N.C. Cooperative Extension at the Brunswick County Center in Bolivia and get your soil tested. Once you have the results, you can amend the soil with what it lacks and give time to the microorganisms to make these nutrients available to plants in time for planting season.

Now is also a great time to spread manure, rotted sawdust, rotted straw, and shredded leaves over the garden and plow them under; you’ll be surprised at the difference this organic matter will make in the fertility, physical structure, and water-holding capacity of the soil.

If you haven’t already, now is the time to plant your new spring flowering bulbs. This is also the last chance to plant garlic.

Empty, clean and store planters where they will be dry for the winter. Preferably upside down in a garage or shed. This is important for clay or ceramic pots. Water can freeze and expand causing them to crack.

Be ready with blankets or sheets for covering lettuce and other half-hardy crops during the first hard freeze.

Maintaining. Repair shops slow down this time of year so arrange for a tune-up and blade sharpening now. 

Resting. Reward yourself for a job well done in the garden, take some time to relax and enjoy the winter season.

Pick Your Perfect Backyard. We look forward to your visit to our unique riverside community, where you can purchase your dream home and plan your perfect garden. Learn how you can be a part of this growing community, and stay up-to-date on the latest happenings in The Bluffs by tuning into our Facebook page!