Before the first frost, there are still tasks and deals out there for the shrewd gardener

Last week’s admission of my “end-of-season anxiety attacks” because I might forget to pass something on still has me thinking. What else should I remember that is too important to fail to mention?

OMG. Here is an important one: Adding some winter support to prop up the roofs of outdoor greenhouses and aluminum tool sheds. You never know what this winter’s snow load is going to be, but if it is enough your structures are toast. Better safe than sorry, especially when it only takes a few two-by-fours to support a roof.

Oh yeah! Don’t forget the application of Plantskydd, the go-to for keeping moose from grazing on your prized nursery stock. I usually remember after the first frost. However, Plantskydd is sticky as can be once mixed and a real pain to apply in below-freezing weather. Since it lasts six months or so if you apply it during a 24-hour dry period, you can (and should) do it now. Apply it with a paintbrush or spray it on.

This is also the right time to label and mark your perennials. First of all, many will still be in bloom and easier to recognize. And all will be easy to find because they will still have leaves. The soil won’t be frozen, either.

It is a good idea to always place in-the-ground plant labels in the same place for every plant. My system is to place labels about an inch back on the south side of the plant. If you are going to stake, consider tall tomato stakes so you know where plants are when you are outside clearing snow off bushes and tree limbs.

[These fall gardening chores will set you up for success]

I usually forget to tell readers to wander around big chain store nurseries and regular nurseries this time of year. I figure I don’t have to as you should be looking around for spring flowering bulbs and Plantskydd, anyhow! Nursery lots will be closing soon so there are sales, both of stock left over as well as stuff they store out there like soils and fertilizers.

Sometimes these sales extend to tools, mowers and the like. If you have the space to plant or store things, you can save some good money. While there, it is also a good time to buy soil and other supplies you might need this winter for indoor use. If you are really eager, buy what you will need to start seeds next spring. Again, there may be sales.

Finally, as it gets cold, there are things you may want to plant now in addition to spring flowering bulbs. You don’t have to, but seeds of nasturtium, poppies, monarda, columbine and delphinium can be planted. These are self-seeders, too, so existing plants will be sending out seeds. And, you can try planting hollyhocks, foxglove and sweet William. You may have to go to Territorial Seeds or Renee’s Garden in order to get seeds, so do it now.

Now is also the time to order kits to turn your lawns into flowering meadows. Fall is the time to plant. Check out a great company, Flawn, and order a few kits. You won’t be sorry.

I don’t know about you, but I feel better knowing I didn’t drop the ball on everything you need before frosts. I know there are a lot more things to remember. We have a while yet so stay tuned.

Jeff’s Alaska Garden Calendar:

Alaska Botanical Garden: Nursery sale through Sept 14. Members get 10% off. “Wine In The Lights” is Sept. 19. Sip wine while you stroll through the gardens. Food trucks and music. Tickets at alaskabg.org.

Harvest: It is wet, but well above freezing at night. Are you waiting for the end of the season? Don’t. We have a while. In the meantime, harvest when things are ready.