The days are getting shorter, and temperatures are getting cooler. Indeed, the transition from summer to fall has begun. If you have a garden, then you might be wondering how you can keep it looking beautiful and cared for as the seasons change. Luckily, our REALTORS® have some tips to share. Here are some tried-and-true ways to help your garden weather the transition to grow even more beautiful next season.

• Remove Old Annuals
  Most annual flowers will start dying back once summer draws to a close. Since these plants won't survive until next year, you're best off removing them before they start looking too brown and drab. Simply dig them up and add them to your compost heap.
  
  While you're at it, make a note of which annuals you liked and did not like in your garden. This way, you can be sure to choose more suitable annuals to re-plant next spring.
  
  
• Dead-Head Your Perennials
  Most perennial flowers' blooms are withered and brown by the time fall arrives. If you have not already removed them, take the time to pluck them off the plant. This not only makes your garden look more groomed but is also better for the plant. It won't waste water or nutrients on dead or dying flowers.
  
  If your perennials have any dead leaves or stalks, trim those away as well. You can do so with a small pair of garden shears. 
  
  
• Spread Fertilizer
  Fertilizing your garden just as things are starting to die back may seem a little counter-intuitive. But if you have perennials, giving them some extra nutrition right now will help them hardy themselves for winter. Then, when spring comes, they'll be even more vibrant.
  
  Slow-release fertilizer granules tend to work well here. You scatter them over the soil, and they break down over a period of weeks. Make sure you buy fertilizer granules specifically recommended for gardens. Those intended for lawns may contain too much nitrogen.
  
  
• Top Off Your Mulch
  If you have wood mulch over your garden beds, adding another inch or two in the fall has many benefits. For one, it can give your garden beds a fresher look, especially if you choose dyed mulch. It can also more effectively block those late weeds that like to sprout around this time. Plus, mulch will keep the soil a little warmer, which helps roots transition into fall.
  
  While there are companies that will deliver mulch in bulk, buying a few bags is usually easiest in the fall. You may even find them on sale since this isn't a big season for gardening. Make sure you buy the same color you applied in the spring.
  
  
• Keep Removing Weeds
  Don't assume that because it will be cold in a few weeks, weeds don't matter. Many weeds actually spread their seeds in the fall. You want to remove them before this time so they don't have a chance to reproduce.
  
  If you notice a lot of weeds in your garden, you may also want to apply a pre-emergent weed killer to your garden beds. There are liquid, powdered, and granule versions. This type of weed killer will help keep new weeds from germinating, and if you apply it in the fall, it should stay active and useful through the spring.

Hopefully, these tips will help you keep your garden gorgeous as the seasons change. If you're looking for Beavercreek homes for sale or need a real estate agent, don't hesitate to contact Wright-Patt Realty. We'll be happy to help.