There’s a certain point every fall when I stop admiring the leaves and start checking the nighttime temperature. Forty degrees? We’re fine. Thirty-eight? Still fine. Thirty-four? Now you have my attention. Because somewhere between what a beautiful fall we’re having and why didn’t I do that yesterday? comes the first frost. And I’d rather be ready for it.
First, I Check the Forecast
A frost can sneak up on you if you’re only paying attention to the daytime temperature. So, once our nights start getting chilly in Willow Lake, I keep an eye on the overnight lows. That’s usually when I make my final outdoor list. Not a long one. Just the things I’d rather take care of while I’m wearing a sweatshirt instead of a winter coat.
Bring In What Needs to Come In
Some things have spent the entire summer happily sitting outside and are easy to forget. I make a quick trip around the house and gather anything that shouldn’t spend the winter outdoors.
That usually means:
Tender potted plants I want to save
Garden tools that somehow wandered away from where they belong
Outdoor cushions and anything else that needs to be stored dry
Pots or containers that could be damaged by freezing temperatures
Anything I’ve been saying, “I’ll put that away later,” about for the last three weeks
That last category is usually the largest.
Don’t Forget the Water
This is one I don’t put off.
Before freezing weather settles in, I disconnect the garden hoses, drain them and put them away. I also make sure the outdoor faucets are ready for cold weather.
A hose lying across the yard may not look urgent on a sunny October afternoon. It looks considerably more urgent when it’s stiff with ice.
I’ve learned to think ahead.
Give the Car Another Look
By now, my fall car check is done, but the first real cold weather is a good reminder to make sure the things I’ll want later are actually in the car.
Ice scraper?
Gloves?
Blanket?
Yes, yes and yes.
I don’t need the snow shovel quite yet. At least I hope I don’t. This is Pennsylvania, though. I’m not making promises.
One Last Walk Around
Before I’m finished, I walk around the house and property once more, looking for anything I’ve missed.
A tool leaning against the shed.
A planter I meant to empty.
Something that should be covered, moved or stored.
And since darkness arrives earlier now, I also make sure the outdoor lights are working. Mo comes with me. He’s very good at inspecting the property. What he’s inspecting it for remains unclear. Squirrels seem to be high on the list.
Then I Let Fall Be Fall
That’s the nice part. Once those few jobs are finished, I don’t have to spend every cold night wondering what I forgot outside.
The hoses are drained.
The plants that need protection are protected.
The things that need storing are stored.
And whatever is meant to stay in the garden for the birds, bees, and other little residents stays right where it is.
Then I can go inside, warm up, and enjoy what’s left of autumn. Which sounds particularly good this year. Because before long, Ian, Mo, and I will be trading Willow Lake for Scotland. And I have a feeling I’m going to need a warmer coat.
💡 Pepper’s Prepper Tip
Before the first freeze, check any outdoor emergency water containers or supplies stored in an unheated garage or shed. Water expands when it freezes and can split containers. Move anything vulnerable somewhere it won’t freeze—or leave enough room for expansion if the container is designed for cold storage.
Until next time… stay prepared,
Pepper
