Remove all dead plants, weeds, and debris
Clean and sanitize garden tools
Drain and store hoses; disconnect from outdoor faucets
Shut off outdoor water lines and drain irrigation systems
Mulch garden beds with 2–4 inches of leaves, straw, or compost
Add compost around perennials (avoid covering crowns)
Protect sensitive plants with burlap, frost cloth, or plant covers
Water plants thoroughly before the first hard freeze
Stop or reduce fertilizing after late fall
Prune only what’s necessary (avoid major pruning late in the season)
Leave some stems and seed heads for overwintering habitat if desired
Wrap or protect tree trunks and young plants from sunscald and rodents
Apply dormant oil or appropriate dormant treatments where needed
Plant spring bulbs at the recommended depth and spacing
Cover vegetable beds with row cover or low tunnels if extending harvest
Remove annuals and clean containers
Empty and store pots that can freeze (or insulate them and keep soil slightly dry)
Ensure containers have drainage holes and elevate them off the ground if needed
Protect roses and other tender perennials with mounding soil or mulch
Clear fallen leaves from lawns; add to compost or use as mulch in beds
Set up rodent protection (hardware cloth, barriers, or traps where appropriate)
Cover compost piles and keep them from becoming waterlogged
Store seeds in a cool, dry, labeled location
Clean, dry, and store bird feeders and accessories
Shut down and drain outdoor water features and pumps
Remove stakes and supports or store them for next season
Check winter protection coverings after heavy wind or snow and secure as needed