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Fall Gardening Tips

  When Fall arrives,  so do extra chores in and around your home and garden, but don't fret.  Fall also bestows on us such beauty, and brilliant color schemes.  I believe Fall gives trees their "time to shine."  Trees have taken a back seat to all the floral colors of Spring and Summer.  Now it's their turn to be in the spotlight. Even though their time is short-lived, it is still worth the look.  The bright color schemes are a beautiful backdrop for various shrubbery and green lawns.  So even though there is work to be done, it's an eye pleasing and enjoyable time to be outdoors.
 
 

Check List

Now is the time to check the condition of your lawn.  Most areas suffered terrible drought conditions.  Your lawn is going to need extra care this season.

Does it appear healthy?  Is one area bare or thin?  Can the lawn be saved?  How much damage did the drought do?  Are weeds a problem?  You will need to aerate, re-seed, fertilize.  If you need to establish a new lawn, it is recommended that you visit your local garden center for advise,  and seed recommendations for your particular area.   Read our  Lawn Care Tips for valuable information.

Check your soil's pH now for best results with spring planting.  Apply lime as needed. Follow package instructions.

Remove dead or diseased branches off of trees, shrubs, and flowering plants.  Try experimenting with a compost pile.  Be sure not to add diseased plant parts to your compost pile.  Compost your leaves for next year's mulch.

Keep your lawn "leaf free."  New growth will do better without leaves covering it.

Clean up your perennial beds.  Remove dead foliage and add mulch to the area.

If you are thinking about adding a tree to your garden, or if you lost established trees due to the drought, now is the best time to purchase and plant the "tree of your choice."  Check out our Tree Planting Guide for complete instructions.

When bringing plants back indoors, check for insects.  Spray if necessary.

Winterize your roses in the late fall/early winter. Read our  Rose Care Tips

Fall is the time to plant bulbs.  This needs to be done before the ground freezes.  Note the area where bulbs were planted.  Your hard work will pay off next Spring with a beautiful array of color.

Store pesticides in an area where they will not freeze and dispose of outdated herbicides/pesticides properly.   Take an inventory for future reference.  Pesticide Tips

11/2002