* Start raking, and watch for leaves carrying disease and pests. Do not compost any unhealthy leaves.

* Fall is a great time for planting, and hardy mums are great for late season color.

* Plan to fertilize your perennials, shrubs, and lawn areas one last time here in the Fall.

* Plant bulbs now for color in the Spring, including tulips and deer-resistant daffodils, crocus, allium, and others.

* Aerate your lawn. Give it a good drink a day or two beforehand, and then give the last fertilization of the year afterwards. Lease the plugs where they are so they may break down naturally and loosely fill the holes, or you may mulch them up with your lawn mower and leave where they are.

* Continue with Fall crops. Water and feed regularly, and perhaps cover if there is an early snow.

* Bring houseplants and tropical plants indoors before a frost. Check them thoroughly for pests and treat before integrating them into your house.

* Freshen mulch layers and add more to thin areas to have adequate Winter protection.