Now’s the time to plant seasonal color
Published 8:00 am Wednesday, October 21, 2009
We are now coming to the end of October, if you are interested in planting seasonal color beds, now is the time to install them. As I mentioned a few articles ago, you need to plant color beds before the cold temperatures arrive.
There is a proper way to prepare the planting beds to ensure good plant health and strong root systems. Add mushroom compost and a quality planting to the existing soil and mix thoroughly. Make sure the bed is raised above the existing soil level to allow for proper drainage, which will lessen the chance of root rot. By planting now, the root systems will have a better chance of getting established before cold weather arrives.
Some good choices for fall and winter color are pansies, violas and snapdragons all of which are available in different shades and colors. Fall accent plants for color beds to enhance the interest and texture include ornamental cabbage, kale, mustard plants, dusty miller, chards and parsley.
Some good fall perennial choices to plant now include Heuchera in different varieties from purple to yellow leaves. They will survive the cold weather so that you will have nice color throughout the winter. The variegated leaves of the Euphorbia are another great choice for colorful winter foliage.
As a reminder, do not be afraid to plant trees and shrubs now. Fall is considered by most professionals to be the best time of year to plant, since the heat is gone allowing the plants to establish a healthy root system before hot weather returns. Plants will go into dormancy in the cold weather greatly reducing plant stress and water demand. Try planting now and see great results with healthier plants come spring.
Happy gardening.