Time to plant some cool weather annuals
As we move into mid November, it’s time to take care of some chores we’ve been putting off.
• Add mulch around trees. Spread a layer several inches thick around the tree’s drip line, but don’t put it too close to the tree trunk, which can lead to trouble. The mulch will not only help hold water in the soil, but will also protect the earth from erosion and prevent the growth of weeds.
• Dreaming of fresh strawberries? Plant some now. Prepare the bed, and space plants about a foot apart in an offset pattern. Plant in a sunny location, and start looking up strawberry recipes for the spring.
• Prune mature trees, and stake the younger ones. Winter pruning is best done after the leaves have fallen and you can better see what you’re doing, as well as avoiding any animals that might still be nesting there.
• We’re hoping for another wet winter, so make the best use of it by installing some rain barrels. Keep them covered so they do not attract mosquitoes, which are still hanging around.
• Divide spring-blooming perennials such as Shasta and seaside daisies, blanket flowers and arum.
• Plant cool weather annuals including pansies, violas, primrose and calendula for a quick burst of color. The flowers should last well into spring. Check your favorite nursery for chrysanthemums, nemesia, godetia and schizanthus.
• Move frost sensitive potted plants next to a wall to help protect them during colder nights. The walls of your house are the best source for radiant heat. They absorb the day’s heat and reflect it to the plants at night.