Plant pansies for spring color next year.
Plant spring blooming bulbs such as tulips and daffodils for a welcome sight next year.
Winterize the sprinkler system by draining the lines and blowing out the system, one station at a time.
Work on controlling slugs and snails by cleaning up areas they are attracted to, and using bait or sprays.
Compost leaves, dead non-diseased garden plants, and other organic matter.
Till vacant lots and empty gardens to control over-wintering grasshopper eggs.
Divide spring-blooming perennials three to four weeks before the ground freezes if they haven’t been divided in four or five years,.
Wrap the trunks of young trees with white tree wrap to protect them from winter sun exposure from the south and west.
Lower the height of the mower to cut the lawn between 1 ½ to 2 inches high to prevent winter damage.
Apply a quick-release nitrogen fertilizer after the last mowing (October to early November) to help the lawn green up early next spring.
Cut roses back to about four feet tall to prevent heavy snow load damage.
Protect roses by mulching the base 4-6 inches high around the graft union.
Plant green cover crops to boost your soil next year.
Divide and transplant spring and summer blooming perennials.
Harvest winter squash before it freezes.
Plant fall bulbs and perennials for a colorful spring.
Deep water all evergreen trees and shrubs.
Wrap young trees for winter.
Clean up perennial flowers.
Add compost and till garden plot.

October Gardening Tips from USU Extension