Cooling temperatures say it's fall even through the rains have yet to materialize. Plant growth is coming to a halt to prepare for winter, so it's time to begin renovations.

Fall is the right time to move spring blooming perennials. The soil needs to be moist before transplanting. Either water well for several days before the chore or wait until after at least a week of steady rain

Take advantage of end of season nursery sales to stock up on beefy plants they've been caring for all summer. Most late season stock is so robust they can easily be divided into two or three plants.

Divide overgrown perennials and set out new pot-grown plants. Fall planting will give them time to put down new roots and recover from the move before they're called upon to perform again next spring.

It's also time to sow seeds for fall vegetables, including lettuce, radishes, chard, beets for greens and other leaf crops.

Other cool weather crops like broccoli and cauliflower should be planted out from nursery-grown six packs.

A floating row cover will keep out flying bugs so that greens are perfect and hold in additional heat from the day.

Most cool weather crops will keep growing as long as the weather is above freezing. For leaf veggies that means well into December and possibly beyond if the winter is mild or your garden is in a warm microclimate such as near a body of water.

When not preparing the garden for next year, it's also time to bring in your houseplants that have summered outside. Be sure to remove debris such as dead leaves.

Clean each plant to remove dust and bugs that hoped to winter over. Use a non-toxic bug spray every few days, and then apply a systemic insecticide to the soil before bringing in the plants. Begin to reduce watering and discontinue fertilizing for the winter months.

Place houseplants to maximize sunlight need for the kind of plant. Keep them away from outside drafts and heating vents.

Q I'd like to add a number of hardy ferns to my garden. A friend has offered them from her garden. When can I move these ferns?

A Fall is a good time to move hardy ferns. It's important that the soil is moist before digging and replanting.

Large ferns can also be split in the process of transplanting. Locate the separate rhizomes and cut apart with a sharp space or knife. Dust cut surfaces with a fungicide such as sulfur to prevent rot.

Dig ferns with as large a root ball as you can. Since they prefer moist soil, amend the soil in the new site with plenty of compost to help hold water. Keep the new location moist if fall and winter rains are sparse.

Fertilizer is not necessary for ferns as long as the site is kept well mulched with good compost