Fall Planting

Fall planting and fall foliage are a couple of fun topics to discuss. First of all the fall is a beautiful time of the year for viewing the exquisite beauty of God's creation in all the vibrant colors that are starting to emerge. Whether it be in the trees or the shrubbery that you have in your garden, this foliage is some of the most beautiful of the year. The Firepower Nandina begins it's emergence as a bright red beauty for you and your friends to enjoy throughout most of the winter. Other popular varieties to consider at this time of the year are Mums and Azaleas.

Let's touch briefly on some of the advantages of selecting and planting various species at this time of the year. A tremendous advantage to shopping for and selecting fall planting choices is that many varieties are being marked down considerably at home improvement and garden centers. Now is the perfect time to pick up some of the best bargains of the year. Another advantage is that the majority of the plants and shrubbery are beginning to go dormant or settling in for their winter nap.

Before closing this topic on fall planting let's touch briefly on Mums. Mums are one of the favorite varieties selected by most gardeners in the fall. Keep in mind a couple of the finer points on Mums. Mums are a perennial, so a little attention to detail now, and then again in the spring, will pay dividends for many seasons. First of all, after getting them in the ground, mulch around them pretty good to give them a warm bed for the winter. Secondly, remember to visit them in the spring to keep them cutback.This is done so they don't become too leggy. A rule of thumb to go by on them is, to keep them pruned back until the 4th of July, and let them grow unattended until the fall. Next fall you will then begin this cycle once more.

Most of all enjoy this wonderful season of the year and use it to reflect on all the beauty and majesty the Creator has given us to marvel at. Remember, this is a labor of love, designed to create your little corner of the world. "Your garden is an expression of you"!

Dave@stayathomegarden.com