October’s bright blue weather sees the end of the garden show over our Northern Plains. Numerous things need to be done before freeze-up. Dig dahlias after the first killing frost. Cut tops back to near ground level and lift clumps carefully to avoid mechanical injury to the fleshy roots. Either store or divide clumps, allowing … Read more
October in the North closes the gardening season with a grand finale of golden chrysanthemums and the brilliant autumn colors of deciduous trees and shrubs. This lavish display of color tends to take some of the strings out of winter’s arrival. Take note of mum varieties that flower early enough to be enjoyed before frosts, … Read more
October’s frosts may put an end to growing things but not to the gardener’s tasks. There are leaves to be raked and flower borders to be cleaned; furniture and tools to be cleaned and stored and Summer bulbs to be lifted. Tulips To Be Planted More importantly, there are tulips to be planted. But clear, … Read more
This matter of which native plants to grow in the carefree garden keeps popping up here on the West Coast. As far as water requirements are concerned, there are two classes of native Pacific Coast shrubs: those which can stand watering and those which can’t. Those who welcome watering (during drought. that is) often like … Read more
This year why not fertilize your entire yard with a complete commercial fertilizer? Late fall fertilization does not start growth which winter will injure, as many gardeners fear. Use an analysis of 10-10-10 or 12-12-12, either granulated or pelleted; scatter by hand. Each analysis is potent—apply only two pounds per 100 square feet. Wildflowers and … Read more
Chrysanthemums set fall gardens ablaze with color. All they require is adequate water to prolong their majestic blooming period. Plant spring flowering bulbs when available. Mass colors for effective display in a large garden. Tulips are spectacular if planted in lots of 100 or more. Try new varieties. The triumphs are outstanding and hardy. Still, … Read more
Brisk, invigorating air, the crisp taste of newly-ripened fruit, and drifting leaves—that is fall. It is a time when outdoor work becomes a real pleasure. And well it is, for there is much to be done. Raking up leaves is one of these chores, and it isn’t just a question of neatness. Wet leaves matting … Read more
Before the landing of the Pilgrims, the Indians on Cape Cod were dependent on the wild herbs for food, simples, and dyes. The Pilgrim women brought herb seeds from their home gardens to plant in the new land. Indians and Pilgrims As Indians and Pilgrims became better acquainted, each taught the other various uses for … Read more
There is no lack of jobs to be done in October, especially if you are foresighted. By doing them now you can save valuable time and the spring rush next year will be less hectic. Tender plants such as dalias and tomatoes are killed by early light frosts, but protect them with a cover of … Read more
The first frosts of autumn mark the opening of one of the most interesting seasons in the garden. It is time to begin planting trees and shrubs. The sooner this can be done, the better, for new roots will begin to form. Almost any tree or shrub can be planted now except possibly the magnolia, … Read more