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As the Minnesota State Fair marks the end of summer, it's also a reminder for gardeners to prepare for fall tasks like planting bulbs and fertilizing lawns.
FALCON HEIGHTS, Minn — When the Minnesota State Fair arrives, it’s your reminder that fall is just around the corner! While you’re enjoying a Pronto Pup or wandering the garden exhibits, take a mental note: it’s time to get a few important garden and lawn chores on the calendar.
Divide and transplant perennials. Late August through September is a great time to divide many spring- and summer-blooming perennials while the soil is still warm.
Plant or transplant peonies. If you’re adding peonies to your garden, late summer and fall are ideal for planting bare roots. Give them plenty of time to establish before winter.
Plant spring-flowering bulbs. Start shopping for tulips, daffodils, crocuses and other bulbs. In Minnesota, aim to get them in the ground after summer heat fades but before the ground freezes.
Plant trees and shrubs. Fall is an excellent time to plant woody plants. Cooler air reduces stress while warm soil encourages root growth.
Feed your lawn. Late summer and early fall are prime times to fertilize cool-season grasses such as Kentucky bluegrass and perennial ryegrass. A fall application helps lawns build strong roots before winter.
Overseed thin areas. If your lawn has bare or thin patches, late August through September is an excellent time to overseed. Keep newly seeded areas consistently moist until the grass is established.
Harvest and save seeds. Allow seed heads to mature on favorite annuals and perennials, then collect and label them for next year's garden.
Keep watering. Don't let the arrival of cooler temperatures fool you. Newly planted trees, shrubs and perennials still need consistent moisture until the ground freezes.
Start thinking about frost. Keep an eye on the forecast and have frost blankets, sheets or other protection ready for tender annuals and vegetables.
Bring tender plants indoors. If you overwinter houseplants or tender tropicals, start checking them for insects and diseases before bringing them inside.
Take pictures and make notes. Photograph what worked—and what didn't. Note your favorite varieties, plants that struggled and empty spaces you'd like to fill next year.
Plant garlic. Order your favorite garlic varieties now so they're ready to plant in October.
The State Fair may signal the end of summer fun, but for gardeners, it's really the beginning of the fall gardening season. Once you've had your fill of cheese curds, start making your fall garden—and lawn—to-do list!
