Gardening Goodies Preparing Yards for Fall
by Nancy Harper, Gibson County Master Gardener
Want to know more about gardening and becoming a Master Gardener? Contact Hans Schmitz at 812-3853491 to enroll in the fall classes beginning September 11th, from 6 to 9 P.M. at the Extension Office, 203 S. Prince Street, Princeton, IN. As I write this, it’s early August, but today with unusual weather, it feels like fall, so this brings me to our topic. What to do with our yards and plants in preparation for cooler weather?
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With the extreme summer heat, does the grass in the yard look like it needs some work? Later this September, think about aerating (disturbing the soil). Sprinkling seed over unbroken ground is simply a waste of seed. Fall seeding in an existing yard is called over-seeding. For continuity of the grass, use the same type seed as currently exists. For example, if the yard is primarily tall or fine-leaf fescue, that’s what you want to seed. Now, think fertilizer so these new seeds will have a chance to quickly germinate before winter Did you ever wonder what those numbers (ex. 20-6-10) are on the fertilizer bags? The first number is Nitrogen, the second is Phosphorus (phosphates), and the third is Potassium (potash) which are the three main nutrients needed for healthy lawns and plants. Nitrogen promotes vigorous growth and the green color. Phosphorus is important for root health and early plant development. Potassium helps the grass to fight disease and stay healthy. But before you fertilize, every 4 years or so the soil in the yard should be tested so you can add the necessary nutrients. Soil test kits are available at the local farm coop and in many garden supply stores. About six weeks after aerating, seeding and fertilizing (mid to late October), add post emergent broadleaf weed control so that the existing weeds will have less chance of returning next spring. In mid to late November you also can add slow release Nitrogen and a little Potassium to give the whole yard an extra boost, (30-06). Let’s talk plants and shrubs. Do they bloom in the spring? If so, they are already thinking about blooming next year. Do not trim spring blooming shrubs and plants. If they are summer bloomers, like roses, trim away, but the rule of thumb is trim only one third in the fall. Next spring, you can trim again Maybe some of your flowers have seeds that the birds will enjoy over the winter. If so, leave them and cut them back next spring. Consider placing fresh mulch around all plants for winter protection. Fertilize next spring. Finally, after you have raked the leaves, now clean all garden tools and the lawnmower for winter storage. If you follow this plan, you will need a sharp bladed lawnmower and tools next spring!
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September 2017
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Small Town Living