November Garden Prep: Tips for Planting and Shielding from Frost
We used to see daylight, but as November begins, we’ll be seeing more of the night and evening sky. This brings a temperature drop, but some interesting opportunities in the garden. With the right care and attention, you can nurture crops that thrive in cooler weather, protect perennial plants from frost, and start setting up for a beautiful spring. Here’s a guide to what to plant and protect in your November garden.
onion plant
1. Plant Cool-Season Crops
November is a great time to plant vegetables and greens that thrive and survive in colder weather. Here are a few hardy options to consider:
Garlic: Plant garlic bulbs in well-drained soil, spacing them about 4-6 inches apart and 1-2 inches deep. Garlic will grow slowly over the winter and be ready for harvest in late spring or early summer.
Onions and Shallots: These are also perfect for a late fall planting. With mulch protection, they’ll establish roots and grow steadily until they’re ready for harvest in spring.
Spinach and Kale: Both greens thrive in cold weather and can withstand frost. Plant them in a sunny spot, or if frost is frequent, consider covering them with a row cover to keep the leaves tender and prevent damage.
Cover Crops: If you’re not planting vegetables, consider planting cover crops like winter rye or clover. These crops protect the soil from erosion, suppress weeds, and enrich the soil by fixing nitrogen. In spring, they can be tilled into the ground to improve soil fertility.
crocus flower
2. Bulbs for Spring Blooms
November is also ideal for planting spring-flowering bulbs like tulips, daffodils, and crocuses. These bulbs need a period of cold dormancy to bloom beautifully in spring. Dig a hole about three times the height of the bulb, place it root side down, and cover it with soil. Adding a layer of mulch on top helps keep the bulbs insulated from harsh freezes. With winter hibernation, these flowers will bloom beautifully when spring arrives!
burlap sack around plant
3. Protecting Perennials and Shrubs
As the first frosts arrive, it’s important to protect your garden’s more delicate plants:
Mulching: Apply a thick layer of mulch around the base of perennials, shrubs, and young trees. This acts as insulation, keeping the soil temperature more consistent and preventing the roots from freezing. Straw, shredded leaves, or pine needles work well for this purpose.
Protecting Sensitive Shrubs: Use burlap or frost cloths to cover sensitive shrubs like hydrangeas and roses. Wrapping plants loosely helps retain warmth and shields them from frost.
Watering: Give your garden a thorough watering before the first deep freeze. Moist soil holds warmth better than dry soil, helping to protect roots during cold snaps.
pear tree
4. Fall Maintenance for Fruit Trees
November is also the time to prepare fruit trees for winter. Remove any fallen fruit or leaves to prevent disease. Apply a fresh layer of mulch around the tree base, but keep it a few inches away from the trunk to prevent rot. If your area experiences harsh winters, consider wrapping young fruit tree trunks with a tree guard to protect them from frost and rodent damage. This is not the time for accepting singing rodents and creating a music career.
rake
5. Caring for Your Lawn
While many plants are winding down, your lawn can benefit from a few November tasks. Mow the grass one last time, keeping it slightly higher to avoid stress on the roots. Rake up fallen leaves to prevent mold growth and use them as mulch in garden beds. A final application of winterizing lawn fertilizer can help the roots stay strong and prepare for a healthy spring comeback.
November is a month of preparation and protection in the garden. By focusing on cool-season crops, protecting perennials, and planting spring bulbs, you set the stage for a successful garden all year long. With just a bit of extra care, your garden will weather the winter months beautifully and come back stronger than ever in spring. Happy Preparing!