The first hard freeze can wreck what summer built. Home experts say these five jobs belong on every October list.
Disconnect and Drain Hoses
Water trapped in a connected hose can freeze and crack the hose and faucet. This Old House advises unhooking every hose, draining it, and storing it indoors. Shut off interior valves to exterior spigots where you have them.
Plant Spring Bulbs Now
Tulips, daffodils, and crocuses need weeks of cold soil to bloom, so October planting is ideal in most zones. Plant at three times the bulb’s depth, pointed end up, extension services recommend.
Mulch the Perennials
A 2- to 3-inch layer of bark or straw insulates roots against freeze-thaw cycles that heave plants from the ground. Wait until after the first light frost so mice do not nest in warm mulch, Family Handyman says.
Mow and Clear Leaves One Last Time
A final mow plus clearing matted leaves prevents snow mold and dead patches. Leaves left all winter smother the grass underneath, extension experts warn.
Shut Off Exterior Water
Irrigation lines and unprotected pipes are the costliest freeze casualties, with burst-pipe repairs running into the thousands. Drain sprinklers and insulate exposed pipes with foam sleeves.
Sources: This Old House, Family Handyman, Cooperative Extension
