Leaves, Leaves Everywhere!
Leaves continue to fall this month. Rake leaves off lawns and beds and consider mulching them to use in compost.
Seasonal annuals should be fertilized. We have water-soluble products that provide immediate nutrients and Espoma Flower Tone for a slow-release option. As the temperatures drop, I transition into water-soluble fertilizers for my containers and seasonal beds and feed at half-strength weekly. Avoid using fertilizers that push leaf growth on evergreen trees and shrubs, as tender new growth will be susceptible to frost damage.
Clean up perennials and prune dead branches to keep beds looking tidy. Dispose of any spotted leaves to prevent fungal spores from spreading to other areas in your yard. You may leave some seed heads for the birds. Refresh mulch as needed to help the soil retain moisture and keep roots warm as we head into Winter.
Be sure to provide supplemental water if rainfall is inadequate. Newly planted landscapes require at least 1.5 inches of weekly water to help plants become established. Check out our homepage for information on planting and caring for plants in the “About Us” tab. We also have QR codes throughout the shrub yard that will take you directly to the webpage.
You may continue to plant Spring bulbs this month. Be sure to use bulb fertilizer when planting for beautiful blooms in Spring. Paperwhites and Amaryllis bulbs may be forced for a pretty holiday display.
Our November Garden Club meeting is on November 11 at 10:30am. Jeanne will demonstrate how to create a Fall centerpiece using fresh greens and flowers. Be sure to register in our Events section on our website. The Garden Club will not meet in December or January. We will reconvene in February 2025.
