KATHY'S HOME & GARDEN BLOG - EARLY SEPTEMBER GARDENING TIPS, PART I
SOME EARLY FALL GARDENING TIPS, FROM KATHY!
DON'T FORGET - It's time to fertilize the lawn the last time before winterizing! Use the mixture suggested by the fertilizer manufacturer. Wait 24 hours, then water thoroughly. This is also a good time to fertilize trees and shrubs. Remember evergreens need an acid based solution such as Miracid. It's also not a good idea to prune shrubs after August. Pruning encourages new growth. This growth will not have sufficient time to become hardy enough to withstand winter cold and wind.
September is a great time for other planting! Grass does well in the cooler fall temperatures. Wait until after you mow the first time after fertilizing to seed. You can use the humus, manure and topsoil mixture with the seed. Sod works well, too. Remember to keep the seed moist (but not soaked) for about seven days until the seed sprouts.
Fall is also an excellent time to plant trees and shrubs. Dig a hole twice as big as the root ball, mix topsoil and manure in the bottom of the hole. Slash the root ball covering with a razor to help roots expand. Fill in hole, add topsoil if needed. Mound soil around the base of the tree. Ring a small trench around the plant about 2-3 feet in diameter to keep water around the planting. Water in thoroughly to prevent air pockets. Water well at least once a week until the ground freezes - adjust your amount of watering if heavy rains or dry spells occur.
GOT A FALL GARDENING TIP YOU WOULD LIKE TO SHARE? Let me know!
DEAN'S TEAM HOME & GARDEN EDITOR,
KATHLEEN WEAVER ZECH
