So far, I've had no frost in my yard in SE Post Falls. Of course, I'm writing this a week ahead of publication, so I could be all wet by then!

There is a distinction between a frost and a killing frost. The first one occurs at 32 degrees and finishes off the most delicate plants such as marigolds and impatiens. These turn to black mush immediately. Hardier plants won't freeze until it hits 28 degrees, which is what they consider to be a "killing frost."

If you'd like to save those summer bulbs that bloomed so nicely this year, here's how. Gladiolas are the easiest. Just pull them out, snap off the leaves and old corm, which is attached to the bottom of the new one. Store them in old mesh onion bags or even nylon stockings. Hang in a cool dark place that doesn't go below 40 degrees for the winter.

Dahlias are a bit different and the most difficult to bring through the winter intact. These need to be left in the ground for about ten days after the tops freeze. This step gives them time to prepare for storage and they will keep better. Then dig and lay them out to dry. Store in vermiculite or peat moss in a 40 to 45 degree dark area.

Tuberous begonias need to have the plant tops frosted, then must be dug immediately as they are planted so shallow that a colder night will freeze the bulbs. Snap off the tops and dry, then store in a 50 to 60 degree area. I use small paper bags with the kind of shredded material used in hamster cages. Write color, etc. on each bag and staple the tops closed. Never ever store your bulbs in plastic bags as they will rot.

If you haven't done so already, be sure to bring in those houseplants you've summered outdoors. The tropical ones especially, cannot take much cold.. Also take cuttings of your favorite coleus, etc. Root these in water and plant in potting soil when the roots reach an inch long. Keep in a bright window over winter.

If you've been wanting to add a tree or two to your yard, do it now. Most nurseries have good sales on them in fall and this is a good time to put them in. Experts now say to plant them only in your existing soil. If you add nice improved soil, the roots will stay in it and not move out into the surrounding area as they should. Also don't plant them too deeply, keep the root flare showing on top. Then water, water water.

Note the picture of the autumn crocus. This type blooms now, not early spring. The blossoms are also larger than the spring type and are shaped like water lilies.

It's amazing how fast the local trees and shrubs have started turning their fall colors. If you can't afford a trip to the New England states to tour their fabulous foliage, (and who can?) there are a few local alternatives.

First is the Finch Arboretum. This is located in nearby Spokane at 3404 W. Woodland Blvd. Also in Spokane is the fabulous Manito Park. For a little excitement, drive to either Ione or Metaline Falls, Wash., north of Spokane. There you can board a special train to take you between the two towns. The scenery is spectacular and there is even a tunnel. Hurry as their rides are offered only until Oct. 23. Look for their ads in the Press. I hope to see you there.

I'm sure you've noticed the swarms of tiny ash aphids lately. They usually show up in early October as they look for ash trees in which to lay their eggs. Luckily for us, they don't last long. The first strong wind or hard frost will finish them off. Then we'll have to look for something new to "bug" us.

Elaine Cerny has gardened most of her life, starting in 4-H. Since then, she has always kept a garden of some sort, growing everything from fruits and vegetables to flowers and house plants. She has belonged to garden clubs in three states and is an active member of the River City Gardeners Club in Post Falls.