One of the newest innovations in amaryllis growing is the waxed bulb. Dutch breeders found that if they cut the bulb roots and coated the whole bulb with wax, in the right conditions, the bulb would still grow and flower, even without soil and a pot.

The weather is cool, the ground hasn't frozen yet and it's a good time to assess not only fences, but other garden tools and features to see if they need fixing, removing or replacing.

Look to the woods for holiday container inspiration. Think: mountain laurel, evergreen holly, rhododendrons, berries, winterberry holly, and red or yellow crabapples.

If you're lucky enough to have lots of carrots, beets, parsnips, potatoes and other roots piling up after a harvest, consider storing them indoors so you can enjoy them into winter.

A soil test is an inexpensive way to get a snapshot of soil nutrients in your garden, the pH and organic matter content.

Simply cut off the top, hollow out the center (saving the pumpkin seeds for roasting) and fill the squash with potting soil. Different plants make for funny "hairstyles" or go with a more elegant presentation.

For some types of gardens, like a perennial flower garden, the fall cleanup recommendation is to just let it be until spring.

Now is the time to plant tulips, daffodils, crocus, hyacinths and all types of bulbs for a spring flower display. Small yard? This is how you layer them so you'll have blooms every week or so.

Have you noticed the many varieties of pumpkins available now? I'll highlight some interesting ones and recommend the pumpkin varieties you might enjoy eating.

Fall is the time to start moving some herbs indoors. Chives, mint, parsley, oregano, thyme and rosemary are adaptable and can be moved indoors successfully. While basil, cilantro and dill are better left for planting anew next spring.