From Naturalgardeneraustin.com November 20, 2007.

Protect tender plants during freezes!

Use sheets, blankets or specially designed row-covers. Construct a cold-frame or “hoop house.” Mulch, mulch, mulch! Water well before a freeze (except for Prickly Pear cactus). Allow hardy perennials to freeze back, and do not prune them until late winter or early spring, if you can stand it. The dead structure of the plant helps to insulate and protect the living core of the plant and is part of the winter landscape. In addition, any pruning can stimulate tender new growth, which would be susceptible to subsequent freezes.

DON’T BE LEFT OUT

There is a golden opportunity to plant in the fall that you must not miss. In our climate many types of plants respond well to over-wintering in the garden. The cool nights and shorter days make it easier for plants to become established.

ANNUALS

Fall is the time for Snapdragons, Violas, Swiss Chard, Ornamental Cabbage, and Kale and many other colorful plants to add to beds and pots.

HERBS

The evergreens like Rosemary, Thyme and Oregano add winter structure but don’t forget Salad Burnet, Chervil, Cilantro, Parsley, Sage and Leaf Celery. It is wonderful having fresh herbs available to use through the holidays.

PERENNIALS

Although most become dormant after the first hard freeze, perennials continue to grow strong and healthy root systems during the winter. Get a head start on spring by planting in October and November.

SHRUBS

Many shrubs have colorful foliage, berries or flowers in the wintertime. Keep your landscape interesting by adding Nandinas, Loropetalums, Camelias, Iteas and also early spring flowering shrubs to the garden.

Don’t be left out, plant during the fall and keep your gardens looking their best all year long.