Kick off autumn by pruning your perennials, getting spring bulbs in the ground and planting trees and shrubs before the first frost
by Helen Yoest

This year, on Oct. 7, we will have a full moon, known as the Hunter’s Moon. Many full moon names date back to Native Americans, who used their cycles to keep track of the seasons. As the name might suggest, it is the time of year when folks traditionally prepare for the winter by hunting and gathering. While I won’t be out shooting anything, I’m certainly gathering a harvest from my garden. Cherish October! 

Cut Back Perennials

Perennials like Joe-Pye weed, garden phlox and salvias benefit from a slight cutback this time of year. I trim them to about 6 to 8 inches of stalk, which leaves enough to remain a habitat for wildlife. While most of the cutback plant material can go in your compost pile, you’ll want to avoid putting in anything with diseased foliage. Instead, bag it, seal it and dispose of it in the trash. 

Pop in Spring Bulbs

If you love a kaleidoscope of colors in the spring, plant your bulbs now, before the first hard frost. Dutch tulips will put on an unmatched show but are not perennial in our area, so they must be planted annually. If you want more longevity for your efforts, consider perennials like hyacinths, daffodils and crocuses.

Plant Trees and Shrubs

October is the ideal time to plant trees or shrubs — and you’ll find an abundant selection of Southern favorites such as jasmine, oaks and camellias at garden centers. You might also consider adding fruit-bearing plants like muscadine grapes, pawpaw or blueberry bushes: not only will you be rewarded with tasty treats come summer, you’ll also help the early-spring pollinators. Blueberries in particular make a great hedgerow, so if you are looking for privacy, they’re a delicious option

This article originally appeared in the October 2025 issue of WALTER magazine.