Pro-Tip November

November Pro-Tip: Preparing Your Garden for Winter in the PNW

As the garden winds down in November, it’s time to prepare for winter and get ready for next season. In Washington’s mild but unpredictable climate, tasks like mulching root crops, planting perennials, and caring for tools will set the stage for a successful spring. At Eco-Restore, we can help you with practical solutions to protect your garden and enhance its health through the colder months.

Leaf Mold: The Ultimate Soil Conditioner

Leaf mold is a natural, slow-decomposing mulch made entirely of fallen leaves. Unlike compost, which requires nitrogen-rich materials, leaf mold is purely carbon-based, resulting in a rich, crumbly texture that is excellent for improving soil structure. It holds moisture, fosters beneficial fungi, and improves the overall fertility of your garden beds.

To make leaf mold, simply pile up leaves in a shaded corner of your garden and leave them to break down over 6 to 12 months. For faster decomposition, shred the leaves first or turn the pile occasionally. The result is a nutrient-rich amendment you can mix into your garden soil, use as a top dressing for perennials and vegetables, or add to your worm bins. Eco-Restore can help you set up your leaf mold system, ensuring it fits well into your landscape design, and advise on how to make the most of it for your garden’s long-term health.

Tasks for November:

1. Harvest Winter Squash and Pumpkins
   Before the hard frost hits, harvest winter squash and pumpkins. Store them in a cool, dry place for extended use through the winter months. If you’re uncertain about the timing or proper storage methods, Eco-Restore can provide expert advice to maximize your harvest.
   
   
   

2. Mulch Root Crops for Frost Protection
   Mulch carrots, leeks, and potatoes left in the ground with 4 to 6 inches of leaves or straw to protect them from frost. This mulch layer insulates the soil, keeping it from freezing solid, making it easier to harvest your crops through winter. However, if rodents are an issue, consider harvesting your crops and storing them indoors in moist sand, in a cool space away from ripening fruits. If you’re unsure how to manage mulching or storage, Eco-Restore offers guidance on safeguarding your winter vegetables.

3. Divide Perennials
   Now is the perfect time to dig up and divide overcrowded perennials. Dividing keeps your plants healthy, encourages new growth, and gives you more plants to spread throughout the garden. Perennials such as daylilies, hostas, and irises thrive when divided every few years. Need help with the process? Eco-Restore can assist with dividing and replanting to refresh your flower beds.
   
   
   

4. Harvest Kiwi and Hawthorn Berries
   Hardy kiwi and hawthorn berries are ready for harvesting in November. These fruits offer unique flavors and are packed with nutrients. Be sure to gather them before frost damages the harvest. Eco-Restore can help with fruit collection or recommend preservation methods for your bounty.
   
   
   

5. Leave Seed Heads for Birds
   Perennial herbs like fennel, coneflower, and lavender produce seed heads that serve as a valuable food source for birds during winter. Resist the urge to cut back all your perennials—leave some standing to provide natural forage for local wildlife.
   
   
   

6. Plant Perennials, Berries, and Bare Root Plants
   November is an ideal time to plant perennials and bare-root plants, including berries. The cooler weather encourages root growth while the soil remains workable. This helps the plants establish strong roots before the growing season. Whether you're creating new beds or expanding existing ones, Eco-Restore can help with plant selection and planting techniques to ensure a thriving garden.
   
   
   

7. Plant Garlic
   Garlic planted in the fall will sprout in spring, giving you a bountiful harvest next summer. Choose a sunny, well-drained spot and plant cloves 2 inches deep and 6 inches apart. At Eco-Restore, we can help you prepare the soil and set up the perfect garlic-growing system.
   
   
   

8. Care for Tools and Equipment
   November is the time to clean and protect your gardening tools. Coat metal tool heads with a thin layer of vegetable oil to prevent rust, sand wooden handles, and apply linseed oil for preservation. Hoses should be drained and stored to avoid cracking in freezing temperatures. Need an extra hand with winterizing your tools? Eco-Restore offers seasonal tool care services to extend the life of your gardening equipment.
   
   
   

9. Secure Cloches Against High Winds
   If you’re using cloches or other protective structures for winter crops, make sure they’re securely anchored against high winds. A sudden gust could cause damage to your plants. Eco-Restore can help assess your garden’s wind protection needs and recommend appropriate solutions.
   
   
   

10. Sow Rye and Fava Beans
    Planting cover crops like rye or fava beans in fall is a great way to protect and enrich your soil. These nitrogen-fixing plants help suppress weeds, prevent soil erosion, and improve fertility for the following spring. Eco-Restore can guide you in choosing the best cover crops and assist with planting.

November is all about taking small steps now to ensure your garden thrives in the months ahead. At Eco-Restore, we specialize in supporting Pacific Northwest gardeners with seasonal tasks and practical, eco-friendly solutions to improve the health of their gardens year-round. Let us help you prepare for winter, so your garden will flourish come spring!