November Garden Checklist for the Mid-Atlantic Region

November in the Mid-Atlantic marks the transition from active gardening to winter preparation. It's the ideal time to complete lingering tasks, organize tools, and plan for next year's garden before snow arrives. Tackling chores now—while the weather is still crisp—saves effort during soggy early spring months.

Enjoy the Season's Beauty

As daylight dwindles, take moments to appreciate backlit ornamental grasses and vibrant sunsets. These small joys brighten the shorter days.

Simplify Composting

Winter trips to the compost pile can be messy. Keep a countertop container for daily kitchen scraps, then make a weekly trip outdoors.

Stockpile Materials in Bulk

Rake leaves, compost spent plants, and let fresh mulch "ripen" over winter. Creating piles now allows freeze-thaw cycles to break down materials naturally.

Put Leaves to Work

Don't just bag leaves—mulch them with a mower to feed the lawn, or add them to compost and vegetable beds for a nutrient boost next season.

Extend Fall Blooms Indoors

When days are warm but nights freeze, snip fall mums and asters, pot them up, and bring them inside for a second flush of flowers.

Get Creative with Containers

Running out of pots? Repurpose tins, cans, and other recyclables for herbs, bulbs, cuttings, and perennials moved indoors.

Collect and Buy Seeds

November offers the best selection and freshest seeds from sellers. Also check retail clearance sales for discounted potting soil, amendments, tools, and seed packets.

Clean and Store Tools

Clean, oil, and organize hand tools. Drain gas-powered equipment and prepare the snow blower—winter arrives quickly.

How do you prepare your garden for winter?