Ask an Expert - Checklist for September Yard and Garden Tasks 2021

Fall is in the air, which may make you want to hang up the rake. Don’t give up just yet, though – we’re coming in the home stretch! Consider these fall tips from the USU Extension Gardeners Almanac. Also included are links for further information.

• Visit https://digitalcommons.usu.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=2048&context=extension_curall if you are interested in saving seeds.
• Learn about how and when to harvest watermelon and cantaloupe.
• For storing potatoes, harvest the tubers once the vines have died down.
• Harvest garlic and onions once the tops have dried down. Allow them to dry for 2-3 weeks before storing.
• Store potatoes, garlic and onions in a cool/dry location (32-40 F) away from apples.
• Fall is the perfect time of year for planting trees and shrubs.
• Go hiking in the hills to enjoy autumn colors.
• Divide crowded, spring-blooming perennials.
• Check pears for ripeness once the fruit twists easily off the tree and seeds are dark colored, allowing them to finish ripening off the tree.
• Early in September, apply a slow-release lawn fertilizer to provide a long-lasting effect throughout the fall months.
• As temperatures cool, turfgrass requires minimal irrigation each week.
• Plant new lawns or repairinsect/diseased areas with grass seed, allowing 4-6 weeks for establishment before heavy frosts.
• In compacted sites, aerate with hollow core aerator when turfgrass is actively growing in September and October.

Pests and Problems:

• To control raspberry crown borer, use a root drench during late summer to early fall.
• Learn about what causes bitter pit and other problems in apples.
• Control rust mites in apple and pear trees after fruit is harvested and before leaf drop.
• Box Elder bugs congregate on sunny surfaces during the fall months. Learn about controlling these nuisance pests.
• Monitor for damaging turfgrass insects.