GardenLine

GardenLine

Skip Richter, based in Houston, is a popular speaker for garden clubs, Master Gardener programs, and other gardening events across Texas. He has...Full Bio

 

Weather tells me it’s time to get busy in the landscape

With the weather change this week, we’re reminded there are many things that should be done in the next 30 days. So many, in fact, it’s impossible for me to pick just one topic this week. So, I’ll cover them all, and you can pick those most appropriate for you.

Lawn Care Schedule: October is the time to do at least two of three things on the list. And if you need clarification on anything, give me a call on the radio show this weekend.

Cool-season Herbicide: It’s important these days mainly for problems like Virginia buttonweed and doveweed. The weather finally has me feeling comfortable in recommending these products.

Tree Pruning: Once high temperatures drop out of the 80s and 90s, we can begin major tree pruning – it’s always done during our dormant season, which is roughly mid-October through January. The two best months are December and January, so it doesn’t have to be done tomorrow. The best area tree companies will deep-root feed trees they prune at no additional cost, but you’ve got to ask!

Planting Trees: October and November are the best months for tree planting, and that's also the ideal time to incorporate new shrubs or re-do landscape beds.

Other Things to Consider:

  • Get cole crops in the ground. That’s fall vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, collards and lettuce. Strawberries, too.
  • Purchase and plant lots of bulbs
  • Change out summer color for fall color like snapdragons, pentas and others.
  • Lightly prune shrubbery – it’s not just a springtime project.


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