November is here! The cool to cold nights of October, combined with the ample rainfall has allowed most of our trees to erupt into a bonanza of spectacular colors. In addition, the soil is adequately moist to bring plants safely into the start of winter without the worry of drought. The light to heavy frosts of October have started to impact our annuals but very soon, they will need to be removed with the onset of truly cold weather. Even though the weather is becoming cooler, there is still much to do in the Garden before it can be put to bed for winter!
Bruce Crawford
Ceratostigma – Practical and Beautiful
October marks the true start of autumn and much work for the gardener! It is now a race against time to complete our chores before that first heavy frost. September was a fairly dry month, so watering chores are certainly high on the list, especially for new plantings! Always remember to take a moment and make some notes about your garden. Among other details, take note of what annuals are still looking respectable, which late season vegetables are living up to expectations, and perhaps what woody plants or perennials should be added to enhance the autumn garden for next year!
Blackberry Lily – An Iris for Many Seasons
September marks the start of getting the garden – and the gardener – ready for a long winters rest. I know it seems too early to think of winter, but it is time to start planning for winter and the year to come. To this end, consider how best to overwinter and to make room for your favorite non-hardy plants indoors. Fortunately, we still have several months remaining for plants to grow, so there is no rush! Continue to take good notes and pictures on how you weaved together your annuals and tropicals this year, since after the first frost these pictures and memories will be all that remains of this year’s favorite combinations!
