This week, I'll be applying the weed trimmer under the willow trees to try to knock down some of the invasive vines that try to jump up into the tree's branches. I'm switching some of my summer pots into autumn pots, pulling out the spent annuals and putting in mums in pretty fall colors.

This year, I put in fewer annuals, however, and more perennials. It was a way to "test" several plants that I wasn't sure I would like. To my delight, I liked them all so now they will go into the garden beds to bloom next year. Also, I'll divide my perennials soon - especially the ones that are growing in rings with the center portion missing.

My grass needs attention, and fall is a great time to take care of bluegrass or fescue lawns. Better Homes and Gardens magazine suggests these three things to do this fall:

1. Reseed to cover bare patches and thicken turf.

2. Fertilize for a better appearance this autumn and to strengthen grass for earlier, stronger growth next spring.

3. When the ground is moist, use a core aerator to loosen compacted soil.

Much to my family's dismay, I'll be ordering manure to work into the garden beds. Adding it in the fall is smart, as it has plenty of time to break down. Leave your vegetable garden "messy" after working in the manure, suggests Georgiana Marshen of www.gardenguides.com. "This will expose any insects and weed seeds to the winter elements."

I've already started getting my houseplants ready for their journey back into the house. I'm cleaning the outside of the pots with the hose, and then putting them in a shady area where they can acclimate to lower light. I've pruned them and I'm checking for insects. (Although I didn't do a very great job on a plant that I've already brought in. My daughter and I chased an errant grasshopper all over the house after he hitched a ride in on my Tahitian Bridal Veil (Gibasis geniculata).

The cool temperatures and abundant rainfall of autumn make fall a good time to plant trees and shrubs. Plant early enough in the fall for the plants to develop a good root system, and water thoroughly to supply about 1 inch of water per week. Water until ground is frozen, even after leaves have fallen.

According to the Purdue University Consumer Horticulture Department (www.hort.purdue.edu/ext/falltreeplanting.html), "some species of plants do not adapt well to fall planting because they are unusually susceptible to winter damage. Magnolia, dogwood, tulip tree, sweet gum, red maple, birch, hawthorn, poplars, cherries, plum and many of the oaks are among the plants that are best saved for spring planting."

The Web site says that the risk is often justified, however, because of the exceptional bargains to be found in the fall. "Many garden centers are motivated to sell the stock because of the expense of keeping the plants over winter."

Slugs bugging you?

Judy Thomas of Dawes called to ask if I was troubled by slugs and snails in the garden. My hostas always seem a bit chewed-upon, I told her, and so we both are looking for a way to stop the slugs and snails from feasting on our plants. Judy tells me she's tried Bug-Geta by Ortho with limited success, as it must be reapplied frequently. Does anyone have another solution?

Reach Sara Busse at sara.bu...@wvgazette.com or 348-1249.