KATHY'S HOME & GARDEN TIPS - MORE LATE FALL HINTS TO HELP YOU!
MORE LATE FALL HOME AND GARDEN HINTS
I hate to sound like a broken record but it’s a good idea to check those gutters one more time. We have those supposedly no debris covers on our gutters. Unfortunately, if you live in or around Chicago you are familiar with the loathsome Honey Locust.
This tree is planted for its quick growth. The problem with this tree are the small leaves that will worm their way past any gutter barrier. They also seem to hold onto these leaves longer than most others.
We were out this past weekend and flushed out several handfuls out the downspouts. Without any significant rain lately this task falls upon us.
Speaking of rain, this fall we are significantly deficient in the moisture department. So again make sure you are giving those trees and shrubs extra water until the ground freezes. They need water to thrive until spring.
Any Terra-cotta, concrete or ceramic plant containers will crack if you leave them outside through the winter. Actually, it’s the moisture in the soil that freezes and expands causing the cracking. You are better off dumping the soil and starting with fresh mix next spring. Plastic pots can be left out and usually survive the winter intact.
Please disconnect and drain your garden hose. Leaving it outside is dangerous. The water will freeze and expand causing plumbing problems. Bringing the hose in will extend its life also.
GOT A SPECIAL TECHNIQUE YOU USE FOR WINTER PREVENTION? Let me know.
DEAN'S TEAM HOME & GARDEN EDITOR,
KATHLEEN WEAVER ZECH
