With daylight hours dwindling, we are reminded of this quote from Nathaniel Hawthorne: “I cannot endure to waste anything so precious as autumnal sunshine by staying in the house.” The autumn sun feels inviting after this summer’s heat and drought. As the growing season winds down in USDA Hardiness Zone 6, preparing our garden beds for the winter is important to reduce next year’s pests and diseases. Tackling your chores in an orderly approach sets the stage for a healthy and productive garden next spring.

Start by setting your goals and prioritizing your tasks. Begin by removing your annual flowers, harmful weeds, and diseased annual vegetable plants. Dispose of these materials to avoid overwintering diseases or attracting pests. Keep nonharmful weeds intact, such as clover (Trifolium re

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