Harvest winter squash, gourds and pumpkins after the vines have been killed by frost. These vegetables only store well if the skins are hard. Pumpkins will last longer if 2-3” of the stem is left intact.

Clean up your garden tools before putting them away for the winter. Scrape off the dirt and hose them down. Dry them off and put a thin layer of oil on the metal parts and linseed oil on the wooden handles to keep them from drying out. You’ll be ready to go when spring arrives.

Remove broken branches or “canes” of shrubs all the way to the ground. Shearing the plant will stimulate new growth that will be damaged during a freeze.

The authors have received training through Colorado State University Cooperative Extension's Master Gardener program and is a Master Gardener volunteer for Larimer County.

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This page updated:  November 1, 2006