October in Southern Ontario is a bittersweet time in the garden. The leaves have turned to fire, the nights are crisp, and the first frost has likely kissed the edges of your plants. It’s the season of quiet preparation—a time to tidy up, nourish the soil, and set the stage for spring, even as things begin to fade.
Here’s how we at Wind Whistle Landscaping approach the garden in late October:
Final Cleanups & Cutting Back
While it’s good to leave some seed heads and stems for winter interest (and for birds and beneficial insects), now’s the time to cut back most perennials, remove annuals, and clear out the last of the vegetable beds. This helps prevent disease and gives the garden a clean slate come spring.
Leaf Management
Raking leaves is one of the season’s biggest tasks—but you don’t need to haul them all away. Try mulching leaves directly into your lawn with a mower or using them as insulating mulch for garden beds. A thin layer of shredded leaves can protect tender perennials and feed the soil as it breaks down.
Planting Bulbs
This is your last call to plant spring-flowering bulbs like tulips, daffodils, crocus, and allium. Bulbs need a period of cold dormancy, so planting them now ensures a beautiful payoff come April and May.
Soil Care & Mulching
After your final harvest, add compost or organic matter to garden beds. This helps replenish nutrients and improves soil structure over winter. Top with a layer of mulch (straw, shredded leaves, or bark chips) to prevent erosion and protect microbial life below the surface.
Tree & Shrub Care
October is a great time to plant new trees and shrubs, as the soil is still warm and roots can establish before winter. Be sure to water them well and add mulch around the base (but not touching the trunk). For established trees, it’s also a good time to do light pruning and remove any dead or broken branches.
Winterizing Tools & Equipment
Once the bulk of the work is done, take time to clean and store your tools properly. Drain garden hoses, store ceramic pots, and check that your shed or greenhouse is in good shape before the snow comes.
Final Thoughts
There’s something sacred about these closing days of the season—the smell of damp earth, the sound of dry leaves underfoot, the golden light across a sleeping landscape. It’s a time of gratitude, reflection, and care. When we tuck our gardens in properly, we’re not just preparing the land—we’re honouring the whole cycle of life.
Let us know if you need help with your fall cleanup or want to schedule a final consultation before winter hits. We’re here to help you wind down the season with ease and intention.
— Wind Whistle Landscaping