October is often the month of Indian summer days and crisp fall evenings. Days get shorter and the garden produces its last burst of color before the first frosts. It´s a big gardening month for most of the country before hunkering down for the winter.

Outdoors

• Keep leaves raked to prevent smothering new grass.
• Plant early spring bulbs and fertilize established bulb beds, including garlic.
• Plant herb baskets and bulbs for forcing if you want to give them as gifts.
• Clean yard. Clear debris from perimeter of house and outbuildings. Trim any trees or shrubs that touch the house.
• At the end of the month, check system and fix leaks, then drain and turn off lawn sprinkler system.
• Store hoses.
• Take window screens out. Wash and store. Repair or replace now. Label so you can put them up quickly next spring.
• Wash windows before installing storm windows.
• Cover woodpile. Split some kindling and store for ready supply.
• Harvest seeds for next years garden. For free information on how to save seeds, see the International Seed Saving Institute.
• Move tender perennials into the house, garage, or greenhouse.

Indoors

• Turn mattresses.
• Store summer bedding and towels. Before storing, check condition. Make rags out of damaged sheets and towels.
• Store summer clothing. Check condition to cull worn items for donation or tossing. Unless you have enough kids to warrant hand-me-downs, send kids´ clothes to donation center, church, or a homeless shelter. Clean before storing.
• Get out winter clothing and bedding. Swap cotton summer sheets for flannel sheets and duvet covers.
• Do a big cleaning now while the weather is still relatively warm. You´ll be able to clear out the dust and dirt that got tracked in during the summer.
• Have carpets cleaned.
• Schedule appointment to have air conditioner serviced.
• Replace weather stripping and caulk around doors and windows.
• Switch to Daylight Savings Time. Check smoke detector. Replace batteries if needed.
• Replace all your spices and herbs. Buy baking supplies: flour, sugar, and fresh baking soda if you´re a seasonal baker.
• Plan holiday meals. Order meats and specialty items. If you´re hosting, make a plan. Check linens, glassware, and dishes. Purchase or rent if you´re short. Get what you need well in advance.
• Lay a fire for the first nippy evening.