October 2006 Gardening Corner
Hello Folks, it's that time of the year again. October is a month to fertilize.
Fertilize now to make plants stronger for the winter months. We should begin to feel cooler mornings and evenings. Perfect time to fertilize, prune and clean up the yard, and then put down a new layer of mulch to your bedding plants. The mulch will help keep plants and shrubs warmer in the cooler months ahead. Mulching also makes weed elimination easier and provides more moisture to the plants. Cutting the lawn/grass will become less frequent. As the temperatures cool you may want to consider applying a weed and feed to knock out unwanted plants(weeds) from the lawn. Remember to cut out any dead wood from your trees and shrubs, particularly your palms and citrus. Many citrus come into season, don't forget to fertilize these trees as well. Try to pick up any discarded fruit from your trees on a weekly basis to avoid visiting rodents taking up residence nearby. Another item to consider is your sprinkler system. When the cooler weather arrives it won't benecessary to water as frequently or for long periods of time. Adjust the sprinklers accordingly, make certain they are in working condition if you do apply fertilizer or a weed and feed. Fertilizer can burn a lawn, and kill a plant if it is applied to heavily. Follow directions.Now is also the time to consider planting winter annuals and maybe even starting a vegetable garden. Plants for the winter months ahead include: Peppers, cabbage, broccoli, lettuce, tomatoes, strawberries, nasturtium, impatiencs, marigolds, snapdragon, pansy, gerbera daisy, and verbena. If you don't think you have the room for a garden, try planting large containers, or even hanging baskets.
Happy Gardening
Joy Schwartz