Protect frost-sensitive plants
Dig up dahlia tubers after the first frost. Move potted olive trees against a sheltered wall. Mulch around young hydrangeas with fallen leaves.
Plant spring bulbs
October-November: plant tulips, daffodils, crocuses and hyacinths at 2-3x the bulb depth. Plant in groups of 10-15 for maximum impact.
Clean up — but not everything
Remove diseased leaves and spent annuals. But leave perennial stems standing! Seed heads are beautiful with frost, and insects overwinter in them.
Lawn: final maintenance
Apply autumn fertilizer (potassium-rich, no nitrogen). Rake fallen leaves regularly. Last mow around mid-November.
Prepare the soil
Spread compost over empty borders. Sow winter rye as green manure on bare vegetable beds.