Autumn Gardening

by Monica Beck

 Most people associate gardening with the summer, those long days filled with sunshine.  However, gardening doesn’t end after Labor Day; there is a lot to do well into the season.  Perennials (plants that come back year after year) can be divided now.  All living things want to spread their DNA, each summer they grow in size and produce as many flowers as they can.  That is what you want right, but they can outgrow their allotted space and compromise your design.  If you have the room to expand your gardens, now is the time to do it.  If this is not an option, sharing plants with fellow gardeners is an alternative too.  I maintain several gardens, and I love to spread things around. 

Some plants make propagate (spread that DNA) by sending out runners or making new plants right next to the original.  If you don’t want to research the division method for your specific plants, just take a closer look.  Hostas, a popular shade loving perennial usually needs to be divided into sections.  The first thing you need is a sharp spade or shovel to cut through root balls.  Be sure to get a good clump of roots and dig holes larger than the root ball.  .  If your soil is poor, adding some compost and peat moss will help.  Add lots of water before covering with soil.  Know how large your plants will become, and make sure they have enough room. 

Later in the fall when the leaves and woody stalks die back clip them to 4 or 5 inches above the ground, rake beds of excess debris, and mulch with leaves if possible.  Another fun thing to do is add spring bulbs.  You can plant them up until November.  I love the variety, all shapes and sizes and they should return every year if squirrels or other pests don’t eat them. Follow directions and think about their height and bloom time. Spring bulbs bloom form March to June.  The earliest ones are snowdrops, scilla, and crocuses and conclude with alliums and late tulips.  You can also easily force bulbs indoors at this time; check your local nursery for varieties and ideas.  Gardening can be a year round affair- if you love it.  Don’t let the cooler temperatures stop you.