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Fall Watering Guide
Autumn is a time to enjoy all the colors that our plants have to offer. Don't forget that it's also a time to continue watering those plants,
especially during this long stretch without any rainfall.Evergreens
Evergreen trees, both broadleaf and needled, shed some of their older foliage in the fall, just like deciduous trees drop all of their leaves. Most pine trees lose 3-5 year old needles, but white pine (Pinus strobus) only retains its needles for one year. Arborvitaes also keep their leaves for only one year, but spruces and firs can keep their needles for as long as 5-7 years.
Broadleaf evergreens vary as well. Rhododendrons usually shed 1-2 year old leaves throughout the growing season, often during a dry spell. Hollies shed their one year old leaves in the spring. So, don't be alarmed when you see the inner needles on your pine tree or the lower leaves on your rhododendron turn orange, yellow or brown and then drop off. If you suspect secondary issues, please feel free to call or bring in a cutting for our knowledgeable staff to take a look at.
Check Your Plants
If the foliage is turning brown on the new growth from the past growing season, then that's the time to consider stepping up the watering a bit. Although other issues could be the cause, lack of water is usually the number one culprit. Evergreens that have been in your landscape for only 1-3 years should be included on this list, since adequate watering helps evergreens maintain and survive through harsh winter weather.
Deciduous plants that are newly established should also be watered well in the fall, as well as 1-3 year old deciduous shrubs and trees. Usually watering both evergreens and deciduous plants about twice per week (whether it rains or not) until the ground freezes sometime around December will do the trick, but because of the lack of rain, we recommend 3 or even 4 deep waterings a week right now.
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Making Your Own Compost Pile
Clean-up is one of the most important landscape chores of the fall season, but what are you supposed to do with all that "yard waste" you're pulling
out of your garden? It's simple - make it work for you! By creating a compost pile, your waste is working for you and not against you.Getting Started
Start the compost pile by putting bulky materials like broken-up twigs and chopped cornstalks on the bottom of the pile or bin. Doing this will help with aeration throughout the pile.
If you live near the woods or you've noticed animals near your property or garden, purchasing a compost bin would be a good idea. These enclosed structures will protect your pile from animal disturbances and most new models allow for easy turning and compost maintenance.
Mix It Up
When constructing your compost pile, it's important to have a good mix of "green" and "brown" material to encourage a healthy mixture.
"Brown" material can be leaf litter raked up in the yard, small twigs, small amounts of corrugated cardboard and newspaper (no colored inks). To help your pile break down quicker, remember to shred your leaf waste.
"Green" matter can be cut-back perennials, green kitchen scraps and lawn clippings (as long as there aren't any chemical residues on the lawn).
Ongoing Maintenance
Once the pile has been built, upkeep is quite easy. Just remember to keep your pile evenly moist, turn it periodically and add a bit of lime to help decrease the acidity in the long run.
By following these simple steps, your compost pile will turn to "black gold" and aid your garden for years to come!
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 Reinvigorate your home with these vibrant houseplants  Streptocarpus  Reiger Begonias  Dipladenia  Cyclamen |
 Now is the time to plant spring bulbs. Choose from your favorites including tulips, daffodils, hyacinths and more. Your fall clean-up tasks should include pruning spent foliage from your perennials. It will promote a clean look to your garden and help get it ready for winter. Gourds, indian corn and pumpkins are here! Complete your fall decorating with these rustic accents. Have your house plants outgrown their container? Give them a new lease on life by repotting them into a size-appropriate pot. |
 From the ultimate garden solution to perfect gifts, you're sure to find something great in our emporium!  Protect your hands during fall clean-up activities with colorful Mud Gloves  Fall watering is a cinch with Dramm rain wands in a wide variety of styles, colors and sizes |