Garden Solutions - October 2016

This month in “Garden Solutions,” I am going to focus on bulbs and trees.

DIG----DROP----DONE!!!

For those frustrated by gardens already too full, flower bulbs are delectable treats to tuck easily amongst established shrubs and perennials.

For gardeners whose beds are bare, bulbs offer a variety of choices. Bulbs planted in fall include both spring-flowering types such as daffodils and tulips, plus summer-flowering classics including alliums and lilies.

Spring-flowering bulbs are planted in the fall because most need a period of cold conditioning to activate the biochemical process that induces them to flower. In general they are best planted when soil temperatures have started to cool, and, optimally, at least six weeks before the first hard, ground-freezing frosts.  This translates to anywhere from early October to November and even December in our climate. 

Whether a garden bed is bursting at the seams or rather bare, there’s always room for bulbs.  And the process is as easy as…….DIG—DROP—DONE!!  ENJOY!!!!

 

The Many Benefits of Planting Trees

            Most often, we plant trees to provide shade and add beauty to our landscape. These are great benefits, but trees also provide many less obvious benefits. Consider all the benefits listed below and remember fall is the perfect time to plant trees for an increased success rate next spring.

·    Trees are perfect for planting as living memorials, to remind us of loved ones, or to commemorate significant events in our lives.

·    Even though you may own the trees on your property, your neighborhood may benefit from them as well. Through careful planning, trees can be an asset to your entire community.

·    Tree lined streets have a traffic calming effect, traffic moves more slowly and safely.

·    Trees can be placed to screen unwanted views or noise from busy highways.

·    Trees improve our air quality by filtering harmful dust and pollutants such as ozone, carbon monoxide, and sulfur dioxide from the air we breathe.

·    Trees give off oxygen that we need to breathe.

·    Trees reduce the amount of storm water runoff, which reduces erosion and pollution in our waterways and may reduce the effects of flooding.

·    Many species of wildlife depend on trees for habitat. Trees provide food, protection, and homes for many birds and mammals.

·    Well-placed trees can reduce your cooling costs in the summer by shading the south and west sides of your home. If deciduous trees are used, they will allow the sun to pass through and warm your home in the winter.

·    Evergreen trees on the north side of your home and shrubs around the foundation of your home can act as a windbreak to reduce the cooling effects of winter winds.

·    The value of a well landscaped home with mature healthy trees can be as much as 10% higher than a similar home with no or little landscaping. (Topping trees will reduce their value.)

 

Now, enjoy all that the month of October has to offer and I will…

 

See you in the garden.

Sandi Hillermann McDonald