Consultation: Preparing for Fall

My latest consultation was needed in preparation for two upcoming weddings.  My client had already accomplished a lot in her raised rock wall beds. The goal: Fall prep to get her plants looking their best for the weddings in October. 

Fall garden chores can be broken down into 3 categories: Pruning, Mulching and Fertilizing.  

Salvias were the star attractions in these beds and needed pruning to rejuvenate the woody bases.  Plants like salvia, lantana and buddleia greatly benefit from light pruning and deadheading this time of year to carry on blooming through fall. Color will be the result and that is definitely one of the goals when hosting events!

I typically like to mulch annually  in Spring, but a Fall application can benefit your garden when it has been neglected, but also to protect the soil and plants from frost. I generally use an organic compost or soil conditioner and layer on top of soil and  around the bases of plants 2-3 inches thick.

Once you have tackled pruning and mulching, next you will want to give your plants one last feed of the year.  Organic fertilizer is always my first choice and will have the nutrients your plants need readily available. Espoma and E.B. Stone are excellent choices. 

As we near the end of September, get outside and check off these 3 garden chores to prepare for Fall! When the weather cools down, you will be glad you did so you can sit back with a cup of coffee and enjoy all your efforts!