I’m not a big fan of cold weather. For obvious reasons, no one aspires to become the human equivalent of a popsicle, so having to withstand constant wind shears is no one’s idea of having a good time. However, for me, the worst thing about this time of year is watching your garden change from a utopian oasis to a desolate wasteland. So, what’s a girl to do?
Since I don’t have command of the weather, I have to keep everything in perspective and force myself to walk on the sunny side of the street. What can you do that would positively impact your garden despite the current challenges?
I’ve managed to come up with a few ideas:
1) Now is a great time to deadhead spent flowers and glean seeds to replant in another part of the yard.
2) Rake leaves and place them in a) the compost pile, b) in flower beds to insulate plants from the upcoming FREEZING weather, c) use a mulching mower to shred them and feed the lawn.
3) Now is a great time to plant bulbs. Mid-December is when nurseries or the big box hardware stores discount their bulbs. I picked up giant darwin hybrid tulips at Lowe’s yesterday for 75% off.
4) Apply a pre-emergent to your lawn to stave off weeds. If weeds are already evident, it’s too late; apply a post emergent instead. Just be aware that post emergents (like Round-up) are non-selective, they will kill everything in their path, not just weeds so be careful.
5) This is the mostly likely time that you will find debris haphazardly strewn across your property. Grab a refuse container and pick up everything that doesn’t belong and place in the trash or wherever the wind gods removed them from. Be sure to harvest any leftover plants and store or discard them in the compost pile.
6) Extend the life of your garden tools by cleaning them. Use boiled linseed oil on wooden handles to preserve them, a brush to remove dirt from metal parts of the tools and store them in a dry place away from the harsh elements. Sharpen all blades and shears.
7) Protect outdoor furniture by covering them with ready made furniture covers. Plastic tarp works amazingly well too and it’s cheap!
8) Take a critical look at the state of your garden. Are there any unfinished chores that you keep putting off? What can you do to get you closer to creating your perfect oasis? Use this ‘down time’ to assess what needs to be done when the weather becomes more favorable.
9) Keep old linens handy to cover and protect tender young plants from winter’s first harsh assault. Overwiner potted plants that will not be able to survive freezing temps.
10) Fall is a great time to get your pruning chores out of the way. Plants like Bee balm, Bearded iris, Gaillardia, Croscomia and daylillies are great candidates to cut back and/or divide to add to neighboring beds.
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This is a beautiful blog. I am so sorry about the flood in your town. The rains were heavy but the next day I was terrified about what happen. I am happy you did not have much damage. Most of all you have your life and your family's life. God Bless to new beginnings.
Destiny,
What a sweetheart you are! Thanks for your positive thoughts and well wishes….I truly appreciate it!