October Gardening Tips

Thanks to Kay Thibeaux Horticulture Chair for providing a “to do” list for our yards and gardens.

(1) If you have a compost pile, add to it with the falling leaves and dead stuff you will be cleaning out of your garden.

(2) Now is the time to plant trees, shrubs, rose bushes and perennials. Planting now will ensure better survival next spring & summer and earlier growth and blooms.

(3) Plant fall and winter color –pansies, dianthus, Snap dragons, alyssum , ornamental kale and cabbage, and dusty miller.

(4) Replace any dead grass with St. Augustine sod. Weeds will sprout in dead spots if you don’t. New sod will be well established by spring. Winterize you lawn with an organic, slow release fertilizer. That will get it ready for cold weather.

(5) It is migrating season for hummingbirds and butterflies. Be sure to have nectar feeders or nectar plants if you want to enjoy the show.

(6)Plant your selection of fall Veggies and herb. Broccoli, cauliflower, Brussel Sprouts, lettuce, cabbage, peas, dill, cilantro, parsley just to name a few.

(7) Between Halloween & Thanksgiving, it is time bulbs like crocus, anemones, freesia to name a few. Plant paper whites in pots by Nov. 11th for blooming in time for Christmas. Refrigerate tulips until New Years day, then plant every two weeks through Valentine’s Day for longer bloom time.

(8) Plant wildflower seeds and sweet pea seeds through November for better results in spring.

(9) Move and divide perennials and roses while they are dormant or growing slowly. They will be ready to burst into bloom in spring.

(10) Last but not least, Mulch, Mulch, Mulch—– The mulch you applied last spring is long gone. Protect roots and maintain moisture, while keeping weeds to a minimum with a 3-inch layer of the mulch of your choice.

October is a busy time. Let’s get to work.DSCN0570

Article written by Gail Branca