As the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, your garden slows down—and it’s the perfect time to slow down with it. November may feel like the quiet end of the gardening season, but it’s actually an ideal moment to reflect on your landscape and start dreaming about next spring. 

Take a Garden Walk

Bundle up and take a slow walk through your yard. Notice what thrived, what struggled, and what brought you the most joy this season. Are there areas that felt bare or underwhelming? Did some plants seem overcrowded or out of place? 

Snap a few photos or jot notes. These observations will be invaluable when planning new plantings or rearrangements next year. 

Reflect on What Worked (and What Didn’t)

Ask yourself: 

• Which plants were show-stoppers, and which ones underperformed? 

• Were there areas that were difficult to maintain or prone to weeds or pests? 

• Did certain plants provide year-round interest, or were there seasonal gaps? 

Honest reflection now will make next spring’s planning much easier. 

Identify Opportunities for Improvement

Consider where you might make small changes for a big impact: 

• Could a bare spot be brightened with early spring bulbs? 

• Would adding evergreens or ornamental grasses help your garden look lively through winter? 

• Are there perennials that need dividing or relocating in spring? 

Taking note of these ideas now lets you hit the ground running once planting season begins. 

Dream and Plan

November is the perfect month to get creative. Sketch ideas in a notebook, make a wish list of plants, or even map out potential redesigns for your beds and borders. Think about what would bring you the most enjoyment next year—whether that’s a pollinator garden, a new vegetable patch, or a cozy seating nook.

Prepare Mentally for Spring

While heavy gardening work may be on hold, you can set yourself up for success by: 

• Organizing your garden notes, photos, and plant wish lists 

• Taking inventory of your current seed collection and reviewing seeds or bulbs you might want to order 

• Planning your garden layout and plant combinations 

By taking time this November to reflect and dream, your spring garden won’t just happen—it will flourish with intention and joy.