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September

9.30.11 - Time to Winterize?
I am never ready for summer to end & make every effort to extend the season late into October & early November. Replace summer annuals with winterizing pansies that you can enjoy now & again next spring. Garden mums & Flowering Cabbage or Kale will also add a splash of color to the fall landscape. I am taking the risk of boring you by repeating myself however I cannot help myself. Fall is a great time of year for planting perennials, shrubs & trees. You can keep planting them for 4-6 weeks. Plants are less stressed & you have less work keeping them watered. The roots will continue to grow & establish all winter so the plants will be beautiful in the spring.  

This week I spent a few days in Copper Mountain, Colorado. The cooler temperatures & gorgeous golden Aspen leaves reminded me that we will soon be preparing our gardens for winter. While many things can wait a while longer it is best to treat tropical plants now to prepare them before you bring them indoors. If you have plants such as hibiscus trees, gardenias, palms, ferns & others that you wish to bring in & save for next year it is best if you treat them for insects before you bring them indoors. Wind, rain & natural predators will usually keep insect issues at bay while plants are outdoors but when we bring them into a controlled environment the insects will proliferate & can become a problem. It is best to be proactive & treat plants before you bring them in. Spray them with a houseplant insect spray or insecticidal soap 2 times, 1 week apart to kill insects & then any eggs that matured. In addition, I think it is best if you treat them with Bonide’s Systemic Insect Control which will work through the root system & into the vascular system of the plant to control insects for 6 weeks. That should be enough time to kill any remaining insects. If possible, it is always best to bring plants indoors gradually so they gradually adjust to lower light conditions. Once indoors, place plants in bright light & water them regularly as needed. If you do not have a bright spot for them you can also supplement the lighting with a grow light bulb. As a rule of thumb it is time to bring plants indoors when temperatures dip below 40° F however be sure to bring them in before the first frost.

Here are a few more tips for putting your garden to rest in the coming weeks.

If you have rhododendron, azaleas or other evergreens that are susceptible to wind burn you can treat them with Wilt-Pruf. This product is sprayed on the leaves. It provides a protective layer on the leaves to avoid dehydration & winter injury.

As perennials die back from frost or if they look unattractive cut them back & remove the left over foliage. Be sure to remove & dispose of any diseased plant debris to prevent reinfestation next year, Later this fall after they are dormant we suggest you fertilize them with Plant-tone Organic fertilizer. While plants are resting over winter the roots will be growing so this, later fertilization is very beneficial.

Usually roses are blooming & beautiful this time of year so I would suggest you wait until late October or early November to prepare them. If you have traditional roses such as tea or floribunda roses you will need to protect the graft by placing top soil or mulch about 10” deep around the base of the rose in late fall (usually November). It is best to trim very long branches that might break from snow load otherwise we suggest that you cut them back in the spring. If you have Knock-out rose varieties they do not need the winter protection. Roses are one plant that should not be fertilized after late August or early September.

Ornamental Grasses are gorgeous right now. They can be cut back in late fall or early spring depending on your preference. I love the way the grasses look just after a snow fall so I prefer to wait until February or March to cut them back.

You can continue harvesting your vegetable garden until the forecast indicates a danger of frost. Usually tomatoes that are green on the outside will be pink or red on the inside. If you pick them & keep them in a cool place they will ripen gradually & they will have a very good flavor.Go ahead & glean your garden when the danger of frost is imminent. After the final harvest, remove all plant debris & add Sweet Peet® or homemade compost to fortify the soil for next year.

9.21.11 - Everything BULBS!
Bulb Planting
In our world of instant messaging & up to the minute “everything” it is hard to imagine a plant that requires a long winter nap before it will grow & bloom like fall bulbs. Frequently guests are so disappointed in the spring when they cannot purchase tulip or daffodil bulbs that are ready to bloom. Plan now to plant them this fall so you can enjoy them next spring. While it does not provide instant gratification it will be worth the wait when the first blooms of the season peak through after the snow melts. Planting fall bulbs is like planting “hope”. Hope for a beautiful spring with the bright colors of daffodils & tulips as well as other spring bulbs. Here are a few tips & a bulb planting video we created to help you get started.

Planting Bulbs:
It is best to plant bulbs in late fall (mid October – November) when the soil temperature is 60°F or less & before the ground freezes. Each bulb is like a lifecycle within itself. When you cut it in ½ it has many layers similar to on onion. First the roots will grow & establish below the soil surface then the bud will develop. In spring when the soil temperature warms, the leaves will emerge followed by the long awaited blooms of spring. Follow directions on the package for the depth bulbs should be planted since each variety is a little bit different. A rule of thumb to consider is the bigger the bulb the deeper it needs to be planted. Be sure to include Bulb-tone® or Bone Meal to fertilize the bulbs. This will make them stronger, increasing their longevity over the years. If you have had issues with critters digging the bulbs or eating them in the past there are a few things you can do to avoid this. The easiest way to avoid this problem is to choose resistant varieties like daffodils & allium. If tulips are your favorite treat the bulbs with a repellant like Repels-All® by Bonide before planting them & then spray the plant again next spring when they emerge. I think it is best to plant them in mass or in groups of 5 or 6 bulbs so they look more important when they bloom.

Making selections:
The old saying “you get what you pay for” applies to bulbs. Bulbs are available in many sizes and prices however the flower size is directly related to the bulb size. Start with a quality bulb for a bigger show of color.

Daffodil bulbs are deer resistant & they can be naturalized. Plant them in clumps or scatter them before planting them under trees in a wooded area for a natural woodland look.  

When choosing Tulip bulbs consider the height & bloom time. Darwin hybrid varieties usually bloom mid-late season with tall stems & large flowers. There are other varieties with interesting flower forms like lily or peony type tulips. I especially like the peony type tulips because they grow a little shorter & their full double flowers open & close daily thus they last a long time.

If you are looking for a layered look plant “winter” pansies with bulbs. In the spring the bulbs will emerge between the pansies for a beautiful layered effect. This idea can also be done with crocus bulbs which are shorter & daffodils or tulips which are taller.

I love alliums planted in the perennial garden. Their tall stems usually around 36” with big lavender globes provide so much drama & interest in the garden. Last year, on the garden tour I saw a unique allium variety that was stunning. They were short about 12” high with giant heads spanning 8” – 10”. They were painted & surrounded by annuals in various gardens on the tour. After some investigation I found out that they were Allium ‘Schubertii’. I planted them in my garden & was amazed by the spectacular results. I preferred to leave them more natural rather than paint them. They faded to a light green color. They looked fantastic for most of the summer. I had them near my front walk planted behind pansies that I then changed to vinca for the summer. Everyone that visited commented on them. If you want to add something really special to your landscape I know you’ll want to try them. We have them in stock now.

Hyacinths are incredibly fragrant & beautiful to plant near outdoor living areas & entrances. They are often thought of as Easter flowers however they will last a really long time when planted in the landscape.

Now it is time to watch the video & learn about planting them.  It is best to shop now for the best selection & then plant the bulbs in a few weeks. After a long cold winter you will be so happy to see them emerge & bloom. They are definitely worth waiting for.

9.9.11 - Extend the Season... Fall Bloomers
It’s the best kept secret of experienced gardeners. You can extend the season with late season blooming perennials & shrubs so your landscape is colorful in late summer & fall.  Roses provide a late season flush of blooms in cooler temperatures & of course many landscapes are dotted with the vibrant colors of Black-Eyed Susans however there are a number of other less known fall blooming plants to consider.
Clematis ‘Paniculata’ is a fall blooming variety of clematis that has a small fragrant white star shaped flower. It is a fast growing vine that will cover a fence or trellis very quickly. I have included a picture from my garden where I planted 3 of them along my neighbor’s chain link fence in the fall of 2009. It provides great privacy all summer long & beautiful blooms when other shrubs & perennials in the area are finished blooming.   


Caryoptoris is a shrub type of perennial that grows 3’ tall with beautiful azure blue flowers. They grow best in full sum. In late fall after the blooms fade you can cut this shrub way back so it is ready for new growth to cover in the spring.


Anemones are another fall blooming perennial. There are many varieties & each one has very different growth characteristics as well as various flower forms so be sure to check the label.  

Chelone – commonly called turtle head, is a late summer bloomer. It is a very versatile plant because it will tolerate both dry & moist conditions. It will grow to about 20” with a lot of blooms when planted in sun or light shade conditions. It is also known for attracting butterflies.

Autumn is such a wonderful time to spend outdoors with warm comfortable days & cool evenings. You’ll want your landscape to be colorful & inviting so you can enjoy it all season long.  Stop in & we’ll help you make selections to extend the season.

9.1.11 - A Long Weekend
Labor Day Weekend is often thought of as “project” or “picnic” weekend when we can take advantage of an extra day to do pending projects as well as spend time with family & friends. It’s a great weekend for landscape projects & maintenance. Time spent in your landscape & garden is very therapeutic benefitting the garden & the gardener. Here are some thoughts for things you can do this weekend.

Pruning & Clean-up – Take some time to remove spent blooms as well as cut back tired perennials & annuals. You’ll be surprised how much better everything will look with just a little bit of attention.
Fertilize – Container gardens & hanging baskets will benefit from fertilization. Apply Miracle Gro, Miracle Gro Bloom Booster or Jack’s Classic fertilizer to give them a boost. Regular fertilization will keep them looking nice for the rest of the growing season.
Weeding – This year the weeds keep growing with each rain fall. Spend time weeding to stay ahead of them. If you’re not keeping up consider giving us a call for our weeding service “Weeders to the Rescue”.
Planting - I saved the “best” for last, at least it is my favorite part of gardening. Early in my career there was a fall slogan “Fall is for Planting”. Now, we often think that fall is for decorating. In reality, fall is a really good time for planting perennials, shrubs & trees because the cooler nights & warm days help plants get established quicker. Two years ago in October our landscape team completely redid my front landscape. As you can imagine, being the plant lover that I am … my landscape is filled with many varieties of plants. The next spring, all of the plants came back beautifully. During the winter the roots were actively getting established so the landscape plants started to grow right away. It was amazing how much of a head start this provided for them. An added benefit was that I did not have to water the plants because we had frequent rainfall. This will vary from season to season. If you have a landscape project on your “to do” list it is a great time to get started. If not, you can “refresh” your current landscape by decorating with fall mums, asters, & winter pansies for autumn.
With all of this gardening you will work up an appetite. Stop in to enjoy a scoop of FREE ice cream on Saturday, Sunday or Monday from 11:00 – 2.
Happy Gardening … wishing you & yours a Safe & Happy Labor Day Weekend!   

9.23.10 - Speaking from experience...
Fall really is the best time for planting & renovating your landscape. I realize that I have said this many times before but it bears repeating. This concept was further reinforced from my own personal experience. Graf’s Landscape & Design installed a new front landscape at my home last October. We were fortunate to have regular rainfall in October & November and then a lot of snow through the winter & rain again in early Spring. I never had to water until July of this year. Furthermore, every plant made it through the winter & started putting on new growth this spring. As you can imagine, I love plants & my landscape included a few less common varieties so it was even more amazing. If you have been considering updating your landscape but were unsure if you should I would encourage you to go ahead. Here’s how and why it’s worth your while:

IDEAL CONDITIONS Fall normally brings an increase in rainfall, cooler temps and shorter days which is less stressful for your plants and more favorable conditions for root growth. This will help the plants to get established quicker.

STAYING HYDRATED This is especially important this year since it has been so dry this summer. Be sure new plants receive a good deep watering weekly. We suggest running the hose slowly for about 20 minutes. Hardwood Mulch or Sweet Peet is also a great way to conserve moisture and protect plants from winter damage.

STRONG ROOTS As plants go into a dormant state in late fall trees & shrubs are able to devote all their nutrients and energy into establishing a strong root system. Next spring plants will be healthier & more robust.

TRUE COLORS Making your selections now gives you a living color example of what you can look forward to year after year.

9.16.10 - Preserving Beauty Through Winter
Do you have a favorite plant that you want to keep inside over the winter? Perhaps you have a hibiscus tree, a gardenia or another tropical, like a palm that you wish to keep. We fondly refer to these as “pet” plants. There is always a period of adjustment when we bring them indoors however with a little planning & preparation it can be a very smooth transition. Here are a few tips to get you started:

Insects are by far the most common issues with bringing plants indoors. It is best to spray houseplants with a general purpose houseplant spray about a week before you bring them indoors & then again one week later. When plants are outdoors wind, rain & natural insect predators keep infestations at bay but when they come into a controlled environment the insects can become more prevalent & harder to control indoors. By spraying them 2 times a week apart you should get the adult insects & then any eggs. In addition, I would suggest that you apply a product called Systemic Insect Control by Bonide to the soil when you bring them in. This product is granular & you apply it to the soil surface. It is absorbed by the roots & works through the vascular system of the plant. It is extremely effective in preventing insect outbreaks. Follow the directions on the bottle.

If possible, place plants in bright light. In front of a window is best, especially when you first bring them indoors. If you do not have a location with a bright window you can supplement the lighting with a grow light bulb on a timer. If you want the plants to look nice indoors a bright window or supplemental lighting is essential. However, if you are only trying to sustain life until you can put them out again next spring, the plants will get by with less light. Please keep in mind that they will lose a lot of leaves & look weak.

It is best to fertilize with a house plant fertilizer or Miracle Gro every few weeks at ½ the recommended rate during the winter months.

The day length in the winter is shorter so plants grow slower with less light. Therefore it is best to transplant them into a larger pot next spring. If your plant is suffering, or you have to repot it then it is okay to go ahead & do it. To offer a short explanation: the roots are working hard below the surface & must grow to touch the sides of the pot before the plant starts to grow. If you repot your plant in the fall when it is growing slowly it will take a long time for the roots to establish & you are at greater risk of overwatering the plant. .

You do not have to cut back the plants when you bring them indoors however you can cut them back if need be. In my opinion, if the plant still looks nice & it is still blooming then I would let them continue to bloom as long as possible. If they start to look shabby then cut them back & clean them up. I would suggest you wait until early March to do any severe pruning so plants can come back quickly with longer days.

Finally, you can bring them in anytime that it is convenient for you however be sure to bring them in before temperatures dip below freezing. I usually recommend that you bring them in when temperatures dip into the low 40’s.

9.10.10 - A few random gardening thoughts from this past week:
High summer temperatures & infrequent rainfall has left many of our lawns & landscape plants suffering due to lack of moisture. It is very important to keep watering perennials, shrubs & trees to keep them healthy. This is especially true for plants that were planted this year or last. I would suggest watering plants using a deep watering method: Leave the hose running on low near the base of the plant for a period of time usually 5 – 10 minutes so it soaks in well, then move it to the next plant. For larger trees you may need to move the hose to 2 or 3 spots around the tree.  If you use this deep watering method you will only need to water 1 or 2 times per week.

As we transition from summer to fall I like to incorporate fall elements among my summer annuals that are still looking good. In pots, if some of the annuals are looking tired remove them but leave ivy & spikes for height, then nestle small pumpkins in between. Flowering Kale & Cabbage add beautiful color & texture to the landscape to fill in bare spots easily. Mums are colorful & cold tolerant so they will look nice for a long time in beds & containers. Pumpkins can be grouped for an accent as well as straw bales and corn stalks will add nice texture. With just a few quick changes you can make your home & landscape look fresh and new again for fall.

This past week I cut back a few of my perennials that were unattractive. While it is best to wait until late fall to cut back perennials, if you do have a few that are unattractive you can go ahead & cut them back now. Daylilies that I cut back 2 weeks ago are growing new foliage & the tufts of new growth look much better than the distressed leaves. I may need to cut them again later this fall. 

9.2.10 - Rethink Fall
September is a wonderful time for landscape projects, yet so many think of fall as the end of the gardening season. It’s true that it is harvest season & our gardens are overflowing with vegetables ripening on the vine. Furthermore, I acknowledge that the night temperatures will be getting cooler & the leaves will begin to change however it is a great time for plants to get established before winter. Take advantage of warm days & cooler nights which are perfect for newly transplanted shrubs, trees & perennials. Last year, my front landscape was planted in early October. We experienced frequent rainfall & cooler than normal temperatures so I did not have to water very often & I didn’t lose 1 plant over the winter. Just by choosing this time of year to plant made my new landscape very low maintenance.  

As you think about your landscape consider plants that bloom in late summer & plants with interesting foliage to extend the season. A few worth mentioning:
Caryoptoris which is a late blooming perennial that looks more like a shrub. They grow 3’ tall with beautiful spikes of azure blue flowers.
Heptacodium is a clump style tree. One of only a few that bloom this time of year. They have clusters of beautiful white flowers & which just started blooming. One other benefit is that they have very interesting bark in the winter.
Burning Bush is the common name for a type of Euonymus. This is a common plant that many are familiar with. The foliage that turns brilliant red in the fall. These plants grow best when they have plenty of room to grow to full size.
Itea is less common than burning bush, however they also have long lasting brilliant red foliage in the fall. There are two varieties ‘Little Henry’ which grows about 30” tall & 'Henry’s Garnet’ which grows about 4’ tall. They also have very attractive white pendulum shaped flowers in the spring. The best part is they are easy to grow & they will tolerate sun or shade..
Ornamental Grasses – I love the rustle of the grasses as they sway with the breeze in the fall. There are so many varieties to choose from including a variety that grows 1’ tall to very, very tall. One of my favorites is Pennisetum ‘Hamelin’ which grows about 2’ high & wide. The grass is very fine & fountain shaped & the plumes have a reddish hint.

Take advantage of September Savings on perennials, shrubs & trees and get started with gardening projects this weekend. We invite you to stop in & let us introduce you to the plants mentioned & many others. Whether you need to add a few new plants, make replacements, or plant a new landscape our knowledgeable staff will help you make selections & provide planting advice so you are sure to be successful!

9.25.09 - Get ready for the cold...
Soon temperatures will be dropping & the gardening season will come to a close. Many people have successfully nurtured tropical plants like hibiscus trees, mandevilla vines, boston ferns, gardenia trees or others over the summer & wish to bring them indoors. Here are a few tips to help make the transition smooth so you can be successful & enjoy them this winter & then in the garden next year.

A few weeks before you bring plants indoors spray them with a general purpose insecticide for houseplants or insecticidal soap. In addition it is best to treat them with Systemic Houseplant Granules by Bonide which are absorbed into the vascular system of the plant to prevent a repeat infestation of insects. This is important because insect populations are often controlled outside by predator insects, wind & rain however the indoor environment allows insect populations to thrive & quickly get out of hand. (If you have waited too long & it is getting cold so you do not have enough time to start early go ahead & move plants indoors, apply the systemic & then take it outside or to the garage on the first warm day that you can to spray it.) Plants should be brought inside before any danger of frost. It is best if you bring them in before temperatures dip below 40 degrees F.

If possible, condition plants for lower indoor lighting by first moving them to a shady area for a week & then moving them indoors. When you move them indoors provide as bright of light as possible. In front of a window is best however if you must move them to the basement or another lower light area you can provide artificial light with grow light bulbs on a timer. Try to provide at least 6 hours of light a day.

Once indoors, water plants when the soil is dry to the touch & be sure to drain the saucer so plants are not sitting in water. Continue fertilizing with a houseplant fertilizer regularly however when the day length is short in Dec. & January either apply less frequently or ½ strength. You can cut plants back when you bring them in or leave them if they look nice & then cut them back in early February just before they begin to get new growth for spring. Unless they are extremely pot bound it is best if you wait until next spring when they are actively growing to repot them.

Stop in this weekend to stock up on all the supplies you need to bring your plants indoors successfully. We’ll be glad to answer your questions & guide you through the process.

9.17.09 - Mum's the word...
Mum’s the word…Garden Mums are a beautiful addition to the fall landscape. Here are some helpful hints to keep them looking their best now & then to improve your chances of them coming back next spring.
Plant them in a sunny location or in containers with fresh potting soil. Fertilize with Plant tone or another fertilizer for annuals & perennials. Water them regularly when the soil is dry so the blooms will last a long time. Mums love cooler temperatures & they will survive frost as long as they are well watered.

If you want them to come back next year it is best if you plant them in beds in September so the roots have a chance to get established. After they are done blooming, you can remove the dead flowers however you will have a better chance of them surviving the winter if you leave the foliage in tact. You can also mulch them with straw in early November to provide extra protection.

Winter Survivor Pansies, Flowering Kale, & Fall blooming Asters as well as many perennials including heuchera & ornamental grasses are great companions for mums. They will provide contrast & interest in the landscape.

Last week I was in Atlantic City for a trade show to purchase products for next spring. Every imaginable gardening gadget was featured including, fertilizers, pest controls, gardening gloves & so much more. It was fascinating to see so many new products that were featured related to vegetable gardening. I am excited about new plant props for perennials, gardening gloves by Women’s Work, & organic weed killers for lawns. I will be telling you all about them next spring.

9.3.09 - What's it worth?
What is the value of an established landscape? I recently read information provided by the folks at “Project Evergreen” that really made me think. Everyone looks at the value of their landscape a little differently based on personal experiences. I tend to think of the value in terms of the beauty & atmosphere it provides for outdoor living. In addition, digging in the dirt & watching things grow is very therapeutic for me. I am sharing a few other benefits of an established landscape from a “Project Evergreen” brochure that I thought you might find interesting.
•Mature landscaping (lawn, shrubs, & trees) can add up to 20% to the value of your home.
•Having just 3 trees shading your home can save $100 - $250 in energy costs each year.  
•A single tree can remove 26 pounds of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere annually, which equals 11,000 miles of car emissions.
•Tall hedges, shrubs, & trees block out noisy streets & glaring headlights.
•A tranquil backyard can benefit adults & children reducing stress & muscle tension. Additionally, green spaces will help to improve attention & removes feelings of fear, anger & aggression.
If you are thinking about planting a new tree or updating your landscape with fresh plants this fall ask yourself “what is the real value of your landscape?”  I think you’ll agree that there are many benefits & that landscaping is a great value when you think about it.

One more thing…Did you know that next to spring, fall is the best time for planting? It is less stressful for the plants to get established with cooler nights, warm sunny days & usually more frequent rainfall. The other benefit is that you get a head start on next spring. Take advantage of the fall planting sale & the extended holiday weekend to get started improving your landscape. It's fun to watch the transformation & the added benefits are incredible.

9.26.08 - It is now officially fall!!!
The weather has been glorious so it is hard to imagine that cooler temperatures & falling leaves will be here soon. I have compiled a list of hints to help you put your garden to rest for the winter.

• Bringing Houseplants Indoors

      If you have tropical plants in your garden like hibiscus trees, gardenia trees, palms & others you will want to bring them indoors before the first killing frost. I suggest you treat them for insects before you bring them in with a general purpose houseplant spray as well as treat them with systemic houseplant granules which work through the roots to provide long lasting protection. It takes a few weeks for the systemic to travel through the plant, but it will last about 4 weeks & you can reapply again indoors. The reason it is important to treat plants before you bring them in is because in the outdoors the wind &   rain as well as predator insects help to reduce infestations however indoors in a controlled environment populations of insects can quickly get out of hand & be damaging to the plant. As they say… “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.”

• Perennial Clean-up

      It is important to clean up dead & decaying matter from perennials & annuals after the first frost however if perennials are no longer attractive you do not need to wait to cut them back. Some perennials like hosta & daylilies will die back to the soil with a killing frost while others it is best if you leave stems & only cut them back ½ way so they can collect natures mulch & gather leaves around them for greater winter protection. There are a few perennials like lavender which should not be cut back because the new growth emerges on the old stems. If you have a perennial you are not sure about please call or email to check with us. You may choose to leave the seed pods from cone flowers & others for the birds. You can leave ornamental grasses until mid February or early March if you like the winter interest or you can cut them back at the end of fall.

• Hydrangea Highlights

      Hydrangeas are always confusing but the best rule of thumb is if you do not know, then it is best to leave them alone. Endless Summer Hydrangeas can be left as is because they bloom on the old & new   stems however you can remove dead flowers after they are done blooming. Annabelle Hydrangeas can be cut back as low as you would like down to about 15” however they can be left as is if you enjoy the dried flowers that remain. From personal experience I find that they old stems provide great structure for the plant the following year so it is best to leave them about 30” high. Other varieties of hydrangeas each have their own unique needs for fall clean-up so just check with us or leave them be. One last tip: hydrangeas bloom better with regular fertilization so it is recommended that you fertilize them with Espoma Plant-tone now & then again in early November.

• Rose Care

      Roses are still blooming & will continue to bloom until later in the fall so you can delay putting them to rest until early November however you do not want to fertilize them anymore this year. In late fall cut them back lightly so snow load & ice will not break the branches however it is best to wait until spring to cut them way back. If they are a grafted rose you can put cypress mulch or top soil around the base up to about 10” to protect the graft from sudden freezing & thawing. Climbing rose canes can be wrapped in burlap & stuffed with straw. Next spring when new growth emerges you can remove the protection    you provided & trim off dead stems.  Knock-out roses can be protected but generally do not need additional protection. Last, if roses have black spot or powdery mildew rake up & dispose of all plant debris           so prevent the disease from over-wintering.

• Late season fertilization & soil ammendment

      While plants are dormant & not actively growing the roots are still active & viable therefore it is very beneficial for plants to receive a late season fertilization in late October or early November with Holly-tone for Evergreens & acid loving plants & Plant-tone for perennials & other shrubs. If you have poor soil that needs improvement you can add compost or Sweet Peet (no it is not spelled wrong) which is a composted material available in bags. Apply as a winter mulch & allow the rain & snow to carry it into the soil to improve it. If you plan ahead & do this now you can avoid back-breaking tilling in the spring.

• Protecting Rhododedrons & Other Shrubs

      If rhododendrons & azaleas in your landscape are exposed to a lot of wind & often suffer winter damage it is a good idea to apply “Wiltpruf” which is a spray that helps to keep the leaves from dehydrating & provides winter protection. This product also works well on Christmas greens to keep them fresh longer indoors. You can also use burlap to provide wind protection for arborvitae & other evergreens that are exposed to a lot of wind.

This might seem like a long list of chores but it is really a chance for you to get outdoors to enjoy the crisp autumn air while giving your garden a head start for next spring. Most of them only take a little bit of time & you’ll be glad you did when you gardens flourish next spring.  

9.19.08 - Fall is a fabulous season in the landscape...
with all the rich hues of the changing leaves, the rich colors of fall blooming perennials & mums & showy bright orange pumpkins. I thought I would offer a few suggestions to help you transform your garden from summer to fall. One of the spots where you can make a quick change is with container gardens. It’s easy to add mums or flowering cabbage for a quick change then tuck in a few pansies around the edge. Why not tuck in a few mini pumpkins & gourds around the edges to add a burst of color. Additionally, I often leave whatever I had for height in my containers as well as ivy or vinca vine around the edge, removing the others then filling in with pumpkins & gourds in the open space. If you need a little height in your landscape consider adding corn stalks tied to a fence post or even arranged in an urn or tall pot for a dramatic effect.

At risk of sounding like a broken record I will mention again that fall is a wonderful season for planting. The warm days & cool nights are perfect for helping landscape plants get established and generally speaking they will require less watering. Whether you have a few bare spots in your lawn that need reseeding, or you a want to update your landscape I would encourage you to get started this weekend as the forecast is perfect for landscape projects. If you need help making selections bring a picture of the landscape area & we’ll help. Ohio Certified Nursery Technicians Jacci Klein & Laura Kaufman will be here in the nursery this weekend to help.  

Last but not least…after the storm…
I was out of town when the storm hit but everywhere I look there are reminders of the storm. Hopefully, electric power has been restored at your home & you can spend time cleaning up the landscape. If perennials were flattened & look unsightly you can cut them back a little early without harming them or stake them up if the damage is not as severe.  Remove sticks & debris from landscape beds & clean up fallen leaves. Add the debris to the compost pile if you wish. Later this fall, fertilize plants to insure they come back stronger next season. If you have specific questions about plants in your landscape stop in or email us at grafgrowers@grafgrowers.com & we’ll be glad to help.

9.5.08 - Add Fall Blooming Perennials to your Landscape for Beautiful Color Late into the Season!
This morning I took a walk around my garden & as always made a few mental notes. I was reminded of the beauty of roses in the early fall. They love the cool nights & sunny days which promotes beautiful blooms. My garden, as with many, is designed primarily with summer blooming perennials & lots of annuals which still look great. However, I noticed the need for fall blooming perennials & a few pansies & mums to extend the season. There are so many choices that we often do not think about. Anemones are great for the shade garden with their white & pink flowers standing up above the foliage, Sedum & Black – Eyed Susans’ are perfect for sunny spots. I especially like Caryoptoris, (a sun lover) which has a beautiful blue flowers & a shrubby appearance. Last but not least, ornamental grasses provide great movement & texture in the fall with their billowing plumes. I encourage you to take a walk around your landscape & make a few mental notes of your own. We’ll help you make good selections for fall blooms, if needed.

9.28.07 - Cool temperatures are coming, it's time to bring your potted plants inside...
This past week I noticed that leaves are beginning to change & drop which reminded me of the importance of considering fall color & winter interest in the landscape. One plant you might consider is Coral Tower Japanese Maple (Acer ‘palmatum’ Sango Kaku) which is a tree that provides wonderful fall & winter interest growing 25’ tall & 22’ wide when fully developed. The bright green foliage with red stems turn a beautiful shade of gold & then the bark is coral red in the winter providing a striking contrast at a time when the landscape is quiet & dull.

As cooler temperatures approach, it is time to think about bringing houseplants & patio plants like hibiscus & gardenia trees indoors before it is too cold for their survival. With a little bit of planning this can be a smooth transition & your plants will thrive. First, spray plants with an all purpose insect spray that is labeled for houseplants & move plants from full sun areas to a shady area so they can become accustomed to lower light before they go inside. Trim them if needed, but not a lot because plants will be going into a semi-dormant state & will not be growing due to shorter daylight hours in winter. Wait about a 7-10 days if temperatures allow & then spray them one more time then move plants indoors after they dry. It is best to keep plants in bright light indoors in front of a window when possible. If your home is dark or you do not have a location near a window you can use an artificial grow light bulb to supplement. When indoors use houseplant fertilizer at half strength according to directions to keep them green & healthy. It is normal for plants to shed a few leaves as they adapt to their new environment. Unless plants are extremely root bound it is better to transplant them in the early spring when the days are getting longer & plants are growing at a more rapid rate so they settle in & get new roots quicker.

9.21.07 - Keep watering...keep watering...keep watering!
Keep watering…Keep watering…keep watering! That is my main message for the week. We have been experiencing a beautiful fall with many warm sunny days so we need to keep watering annuals, mums & new plantings to keep them thriving. It may seem like the end of the season to you but it is important because plants will be stronger & healthier as they head into the winter months.

If you are thinking of planting a new landscape or just replacing a few perennials & shrubs I thought I would tell you about a few new arrivals you might want to consider. Pyramidal Boxwood – this beautiful evergreen is conical shaped & bright green & will provide structure for the landscape. Honey Maid Holly is an evergreen with variegated leaves that provides contrast & has dark red berries. Sedum ‘Likadense’ has beautiful grayish green foliage with bright pink flowers. They bloom in fall & grow in full sun and they are especially beautiful planted with Gaura ‘Siskiyou Pink’ otherwise known as whirling butterflies.

9.14.07 - Preparing for crisp cool mornings & glorious fall colors!
This week we experienced the first cool day of fall which reminds us of the upcoming season including crisp cool mornings & glorious fall colors. Garden Mums are always a fall favorite with their rich hued blooms & they thrive in cooler temperatures. We are often asked if they are hardy & how to keep them from year to year so I am offering you a few tips. First, I might mention that Mums are usually hardy in this area but not always. Their hardiness can vary quite a bit from year to year depending on care & temperature fluctuations. Mums are beautiful in container plantings especially when combined with flowering Kale, Icicle pansies, & other perennials like Heuchera & Ajuga. However, they will not over-winter in a container. Be sure to keep mums well watered throughout the fall. Because the temperatures are cooler we often do not realize when mums need watering but be sure to check them several times per week. Regular watering will help them generate roots quicker which makes them hardier. In addition, when they have finished blooming you may cut the dead flowers off but leave the foliage even after the leaves are withered. Yoder Bros. the largest mum breeder in the world has studied this & have found them to be hardier & more likely to come back when the foliage was left on. The last tip is to cover the root area with straw or mulch in late fall (November) to insulate the roots & prevent excessive freezing & thawing during times of great temperature fluctuations.

If your lawn suffered during the dry heat of summer or you have a few bare spots that need to be filled, this is a good time for seeding your lawn or over-seeding bare spots so you can get it established while the weather is good. Observe the area you will be planting for sun or shade so you can be sure to choose the right grass seed for the area. Rake up dead grass & loosen the surface of the soil. Spread the seed & cover with straw or Grass Seed Accelerator. Grass Seed Accerator is small pellets made from recycled newspaper that expand to protect the seed when moistened & it includes a small charge of fertilizer. It is a great product for protecting the seed & aiding in germination & best of all it decomposes so you do not have to rake it up like straw. We have everything you need, so stop by & we’ll help you get started & answer any other questions you might have.

9.7.07 - Refresh your landscape with some new plants for the fall season!
Wow! We have had a beautiful week for gardening! I hope you have been able to get outside & enjoy it. Although summer is transitioning to fall I think it is a great time of year for picnics & gardening because temperatures usually moderate & the colors of fall are so beautiful! If your landscape is looking a little tired you can spruce them up by adding mums, asters & icicle pansies. I like to remove a few of the less desirable plants in my container gardens & then add a few new plants to freshen them up. Consider mixing a few perennials & an ornamental grass for interest along with mums, pansies & others! A few of my favorite perennials for this are Caryoptoris with beautiful blue spiky flowers, Autumn Joy Sedum adds interest with heavy leaves & robust flowers ,Cerotostigma ‘Plumbago’ with brilliant blue flowers & reddish foliage, Heuchera  adds nice texture with your choice of lime green, gold or red foliage just to mention a few!

The magic of Icicle Pansies…it’s not really magic but they are a very resilient & giving plant that enjoys cooler temperatures & blooms like crazy! Plant them in full to part sun in beds & watch them grow. They will bloom through the fall until the snow flies & then again next spring. We plant them in our beds by the store every fall along with tulip & daffodil bulbs. They look great even after the other flowers grown from bulbs are spent!!  It’s best to plant them as early as possible this fall to get their root system established before winter. You’ll be glad you did!!!

Speaking of tulips & daffodils…they have just arrived. You can get the best selection now; however it is best if you wait until after we have a killing frost to plant them. More on bulbs in the future…