Daylight Saving Time just ended, and with it, we all need to get re-adjusted to the fact that it is getting dark earlier. Unfortunately, this means that we have less time to garden in the evening when we get home from work. But as I look at this change in time, it’s just a normal adjustment we’ll need to get used to over the next few months.
HERE IS A CHECKLIST OF GARDENING CHORES TO DO IN NOVEMBER
- It’s November, and customers ask, “Is it too late to be planting?” Actually, November is a great month to be planting shrubs and trees. The reason: our soil and air are cool, there are fewer pests to deal with, and these plants will not dry out as quickly between waterings. Keep in mind that plants planted in November have over six months to become more established before the heat of next summer.
- November is a great month to be planting spring-blooming bulbs such as daffodils, hyacinths, crocus, and others. I would still hold off on planting tulip bulbs until closer to Thanksgiving, when our soil temperature will be cooler.
- Support our feathered friends. Put out birdfeeders all winter. Our friends need our assistance to keep fed.
- Closer to Thanksgiving is a good time to give lawns their winterizing fertilizer.
- Many homeowners are now draining their water fountains. If possible, turn the bowls upside down to prevent water from rain or snow from collecting.
- Pine trees are shedding needles now. Pine tags make great natural mulch to use around azaleas, hollies, rhododendrons, and other plants.
Take a walk through your gardens as the fall season winds down. Take time to reflect on the successes and failures from this year. Make notes for new things to try and things to fix next spring.
BE HAPPY THAT YOU ARE ABLE TO GARDEN AND GROW A LITTLE HAPPINESS!!!!!!!!!!!!