“Ah, Sweet September, where summer softly lingers and autumn patiently awaits its turn . . .”
September is one of my favorite gardening months! As temperatures begin to cool and rainfall becomes more consistent, it’s the perfect time for planting. Whether you’re working with an existing garden or starting a new one, the following tips will help.
CLEAN UP
By late summer, after weeks of intense heat and only sporadic rain, our spring and summer perennials can look a little worn out. Taking some time now to clean up these plants can give your garden a rejuvenated look for fall. I like to move through each garden area and deadhead spent blooms, cut back brown stems and remove tattered leaves. Daylilies are the perfect example of plants that immediately look better after such attention. While you’re at it, pull out any persistent weeds or diseased foliage and dispose of them away from the garden. Don’t compost the debris for you’ll only be spreading disease and weed seeds!
EVALUATE
Now that your garden has been cleaned up, take a good look at what’s remaining. Are there some plants you would like to have more of? Would a certain plant perform better in another area, with more or less sunlight? Are there spaces where you can tuck in a few spring or summer bulbs? Is there something blooming in your neighborhood that catches your eye? Maybe you’d like to add some new fall perennials or shrubs to extend your gardening season. Whatever you want to accomplish in the garden, September is the perfect month to get it all done!
PLAN
I know this is easier said than done, but a little planning in the fall goes a long way come spring. Dream a little, seek inspiration and ask yourself these questions: How much time do you want to spend gardening? What garden style appeals to you? Do you like the look of romantic cottage gardens or lean more towards native plantings and low-maintenance xeriscaping? Do you love the blooms of early spring bulbs? If so, order now for optimum planting time later this month and into October. When looking for new plants, be sure to check on-line for those that thrive in your hardiness zone, soil type and light conditions. The decisions you make now will help create a garden you’ll enjoy for years to come.
PLANT
Any planting is best done on a mild cloudy day and before expected rainfall. This is good for the gardener as well as the plants! Now is the time to divide large clumps of perennials and relocate or share the extras. This is a great way to enlarge your garden using what you already have and love! Maybe you want to splurge on that new hydrangea or add asters, sedums and Montauk daisies for more fall color. Many garden centers and websites have late season sales going on right now so take advantage. You’ll be rewarded for your efforts with an even more magnificent garden next year!
CELEBRATE
For instant gardening gratification, how about having some fun redoing your planters? Reuse plants that are still performing well and replace those that are looking ragged. Check with your local garden center for plants that are cold hardy and don’t be afraid to mix annuals with perennials or even small evergreens. Add pumpkins, cornstalks, seed pods and gourds around your freshened pots for even more seasonal drama. It’s time to enjoy and celebrate Sweet September!
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