Fall Chores for the Gardener

As winter looms ever closer, it's time to take some steps to prepare for cold weather before the gardening season draws to a close.

• Clean garden tools for winter storage. Clean soil from tools and oil tools with movable parts. Carefully sharpen lawn mower blades and pruners, or take them to a professional if you're not comfortable doing it yourself.

• Clean gutters and downspouts of fallen leaves and debris. Serious damage may occur if water and snow accumulate in the gutters.

• Store garden chemicals in a dry place, away from children, pets and animals. Keep from freezing.

• Turn off outside water faucets. Drain and store hoses in a warm place so water won't freeze and cause cracks and holes.

• Bring in clay pots. Clay garden ornaments are prone to cracking and breaking from the fluctuating temperatures during the winter.

When you finish these chores, it's time to come inside and relax with a cup of hot apple cider. And before you know it, the garden catalogs will arrive with the promise of spring!