Jefferson County residents advised on fall landscape preparation

As temperatures decline in Jefferson County, Arkansas, homeowners are advised to begin winter landscape preparations. According to the University of Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service, fall is a critical period for maintaining plant health and improving soil conditions for future growth.

Key recommendations include planting cool-season vegetables such as kale, spinach, and turnips, as well as garlic in October. For lawn care, residents should avoid late-season nitrogen fertilizers that promote frost-vulnerable new growth, and should continue watering during dry spells.

Additionally, fall is an ideal time to plant trees and shrubs to allow root development before summer heat. Homeowners are also encouraged to conduct soil testing to identify nutrient needs and remove diseased plant debris to ensure a healthy garden in the coming spring.