Just in case I left something out last month, you can e-mail me at plantlady@northsacnews.com. This month, I want to remind everyone of the toll that harsh, drying winds can take on our plants – especially trees. Be sure to keep them hydrated. A phenomenon known as capillary reaction causes water to wick upward as oil would on a lamp’s wick. The water does this in part of its aid for dispersal through the hydrological cycle. Meaning in nature, water rises and wind dries so, even though it may be cool outside, moisture is not always retained.
Equally vulnerable to the wind is our lawn. More frequent watering may be necessary in harsh, windy conditions. Wind also is a major culprit in bringing unwanted spores and weed seeds from our neighbors’ yards into ours. So, if you have a lawn that is free of weeds, unlike mine, a weed and feed is necessary as you prepare your lawn for winter.
Some of us have “hardscapes,” which consist of bark or rock gardens, rather than lawns. You would simply apply a pre-emergent such as Amaze or Preen which is intended for ornamental gardens, rather than the weed-n-feed for lawns.
Utilize products that have already been purchased before buying new.
Some products are not as vulnerable to expiration, however, now is a great time to do a “Fall” cleaning on your garden products. This is also a great time for garden tool inventory. Do I have a good rake? Do I have leaf bags? Do I want to buy a blower? If another storm like last year hits, do I have the required tools (chainsaw, axe, rope, loppers, etc.) on hand in case of emergency?
Speaking of garden tools, powered equipment needs to be properly stored for the winter. This includes a quick cleaning, especially on the moving components and filters, and adding a fuel stabilizer to the fuel. Check spark plugs for corrosion and clean off any build-up all around the engine – maybe even use some oil or WD-40 where applicable. Whether battery-powered or electric, the cords or batteries should be removed and properly stored.
Look for areas in your lawn and garden where insects have been, or where other wintering insects may inhabit. Treat these areas now with an insecticide – areas where ants once were or are in your mulch or bark. It’s a good idea to apply now to both kill and prevent new infestations. Raised beds or flower boxes near structures are likely areas, as well as under sheds and the like. Sweep or take down webs and nests and check, discard or refill old bait boxes, stations or traps.
I usually take this time when I decorate for Halloween to take down decorations and lawn ornaments that would not “weather” well. I get a large plastic tub with a lid and put the stuff in it until spring. Potted plants I have on the porch and patio and hanging in trees need to be brought in by the end of October. Most do okay in the garage as long as they can still get half the amount of required light and water. Some tender tropicals will need to come inside the house.
Volck oil is an insecticide for overwintering, sucking and chewing insects and their eggs. This should be purchased new each season, as it loses viability when it sits. It is good to apply twice. First while leaves are on the trees, and second, after they fall. Try as we may, not all of our leaves always get picked up as they fall, and the “insulated bedding” provides a great habitat for unwanted creatures.
Enjoy this time of the year with the comfort of knowing you took precautions. Winter gardening will be a whole lot easier if we are prepared. Bare roots will be arriving soon, and to have the areas cleared and prepared is essential. Think now, about where you might want to plant. Be sure also to use some small flags or markers where bulbs, et cetera were planted.
Some gardeners like to border in the areas ahead of time, and even cover the area with a light weight netting or cloth to keep excess “leaf litter” out and from compacting the surface. Well friends, it’s the time of year, traditionally, to give thanks for everything we are grateful for. I want to say thank you to all of you at the North Sac News, all of my readers, customers, neighbors, family and church family and each and every associate at the Antelope Home Depot. I feel very blessed and honored to know all of you, and to have you in my life. I love you guys. You’re the best. Thank you for putting up with me!
Happy Thanksgiving,
Your Plant Lady