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Fall to-do list
This has been one of the nicest autumns we’ve had in a while, but it’s official—winter is coming. Mother Nature has been giving us all of the signs, so its time to start getting the gardens ready for bed (pun intended!)
When it comes to getting the outside ready for winter, here is my personal list of things I make sure that I get done at this time of the year
WRAP THOSE EVERGREENS!
Plants like boxwoods, yews and cedars stay green all year, which is why we call them evergreens. These plants retain their chlorophyll in their leaves and needles. It’s this chlorophyll that works in producing energy and food for the plant. This process of photosynthesis also requires light and water. When we get bright sunny days in the winter and early spring, the plants start to make energy. Unfortunately, the ground is still frozen, preventing the roots from getting any water to the plant. This is what causes the brown sections—they are simply drying out. The burlap wrap slows down this process, allowing the tree to naturally keep up with the water supply. If you don’t like the look of burlap in the yard, there are a few other options. You can now find green tree wraps that have zippers, which make life easier, and the trees still look green in the yard. (Leevalley.ca) Also consider using a waxy spray called an anti-desiccant. It helps hold moisture in the needles and prevents drying out in the winter months.
DON’T PRUNE ANYTHING JUST YET
Pruning at this time of the year encourages the shrubs to try and replace what is lost, and this is the worst time for new growth. Instead, wait until the leaves have fallen, as this is less stressful on the plant. The changing of leaf-colour signifies the movement of sap from the branches of the plant into the roots. The sap is what feeds the tree and helps promote growth. When the plants are dormant, they store all of their sap reserves in their roots. Come spring, these extra reserves promote lots of healthy new growth and significantly more blooms!
TAKE CARE OF LEAVES
Get the leaves off of the grass and into the flowerbeds! Leaves will smother the lawn, acting as a wet ‘mat’ once the snow has piled up on top of them. Instead, invest in a leaf vacuum. (Blackand- Decker.ca) These machines are great at sucking up the leaves and chopping them into manageable pieces, perfect for adding around your plants and shrubs. New research has shown that in this form, the leaves breakdown faster and add valuable nutrients to the roots of your favourite perennials. It’s the cheapest and most effective fertilizer your can get!
Don’t get caught by a blast of cold this year. Start your fall gardening now while the weather is still decent and reap the rewards next spring when all of the white stuff melts and your garden looks better than ever!
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