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
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
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
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
October is planting time for many things in the South. All the way from the Virginia seaboard to the Texas plains it is considered the best time to plant daffodils. Here in the South we need many more of these bulbs. In late winter. February and March, no other flowers give its such an invigorating … Read more
Gardeners are now busy with a wide variety of pleasant tasks: bulb planting is in full swing; evergreens are being set in; some of the summer bulbs are being dug and cured; the last of the late winter- and spring-blooming annuals are being planted, and in the higher altitudes borders are being bedded down for … Read more
Frosts, even killing frosts,- have already visited the colder parts of our northern area. Sudden killing frosts, descending while plants are still in growth or not fully ripened, are devastating. Only the more rugged plants can stand it. This is true of flowering shrubs, trees, and even perennials. Which Shrubs Are Best For Cold Climates? … Read more
Bulbs have priority in October gardening activities in the Northwest. Plant spring-blooming ones, and lift and store those that have finished their summer bloom. Cleaning up and composting, preparing for spring planting, and eliminating pests are important to your list. The Cascades divide the area, killing frosts already a danger east of the mountains. But … Read more
A greenhouse will furnish the climate to order. In a warm house, the pattern of the tropics can be followed. Near the edges and in the “toe” of a lean-to, cacti and succulents will flourish in the heat and develop their beauty in form and color. The larger epiphytic bromeliads, aloes, and euphorbias are happy … Read more