Allow plants to finish the summer growth cycle in a normal manner. Never encourage new growth with heavy applications of fertilizer or excessive pruning this late in the season. The…

Continue collecting annual and perennial seeds that you wish to sow next year. Freshly collected seed is best stored in a paper bag or envelope until thoroughly 

Keep dead-heading plants, such as tithonia, zinnia, and cosmos, to ensure that they continue to flower.

Order or purchase bulbs by October 1, when the best selections are available. Store them in a cool, dry location until you plant them. Colchicums and fall-blooming crocus should be…

Avoid the temptation to plant seasonal pot mums in your landscape Even if they establish themselves, they rarely live up to your expectations the following year. It is best to…

If you have had problems with disease among the vegetables in your garden, remove and dispose of the plant materials properly. Do not add these to the compost pile. Many…

Collect seed heads and pods on plants like sumac, okra, cotton, coneflower, rose hips, and other suitable materials for dried arrangements. Air dry in a dark, well-ventilated cool location.

Divide and repot any tropicals you have outdoors to prepare them for their winter home. Hose off or wash plants with soapy water and inspect them for insects. If needed,…

To ensure proper maturity, hard-shelled gourds, such as dipper, birdhouse and swan should be left on the vine until the vine starts to die back.

Keep an eye out for pests on your pumpkins, gourds, squash, and melons. Cucumber beetles and squash bugs can be controlled with Sevin. Harvest your pumpkins when their color deepens…