The Northeast is prone to rough winters so you'll need to be prepared and protect your garden so it'll survive the cold and be ready for spring.

Cut back perennials that were killed by frost to a few inches and places a few inches of lightweight mulch over them.
Pull and pitch other dead annuals and vegetables as well.
Wrap the trunks of new trees in burlap or other special wrap, preventing scalding, wind burn and rodent damage.
Clear your yard of leaves and place them in your compost pile or dispose of them.
Unscrew your hoses from the faucets, drain them and place them in a dry covered place.
After the final time you mow the grass in the fall, have your mower serviced and the blades sharpened so they're ready for spring.
Check out the full list of advice at November Tips: The Northeast from Better Homes and Gardens.