Planning Ahead: Fall & Winter Prep for a Thriving Spring Garden

As the days shorten and the last tomatoes come off the vine, it’s tempting to close the garden gate and call it a season. But fall and winter are prime time for setting the stage for a strong, healthy spring garden. Fall and winter aren’t just the end of the growing season—they’re the beginning of the next one. Whether you’re working a few raised beds or a full acre, what you do now can make all the difference come spring. Here on the farm, we’re doing a few key things to prep our soil, protect our perennials, and plan ahead.

---

🧹 Garden Clean-Up & Soil Building

We’re clearing out spent plants and pulling weeds before they go to seed, then layering in compost to replenish the soil. Since we don’t use a cover crop, we build fertility with a base layer of goat droppings beneath mulch and leaf litter. This helps feed the soil through winter while suppressing weeds and preventing erosion—setting the stage for next year’s garden.

---

🧤 Mulching & Perennial Care

Our hardy jasmine, berry bushes, and overwintering herbs get a generous blanket of straw and wood chips. This helps insulate roots, retain moisture, and slowly feed the soil. Don’t forget to mark your perennials clearly—spring weeds love to hide them!

---

📦 Seed Inventory & Planning

We’re taking stock of what grew well (and what didn’t), organizing leftover seeds, and making notes for next year’s layout. It’s a great time to order seeds, shallots, and spring bulbs while supplies last. If you save seeds, make sure they’re dry and labeled—future you will thank you.

---

Fall may feel like a slow season, but it’s rich with opportunity. A little effort now—whether it’s mulching, planning, or preserving—sets the stage for a vibrant, productive spring. We’ll be sharing more tips, recipes, and updates as the seasons shift.