The temperatures are dropping, the leaves are turning and it’s time to think about Spring. Crazy, I know, but this is the time to start planning the first blooms I want to see in the spring. There is a limited time to get fall bulbs planted before the ground freezes. A little bit of planning will make for a gorgeous display as temperatures warm back up after the winter snows have melted off. Daffodils, tulips, hyacinth, iris, allium and crocus need to be planted in the next couple of weeks. I am planning on adding more snow crocus along the path to my door. Their colorful blooms will be a welcome sight after the dreariness of late winter. I have a large patch of yellow daffodils surrounding my vintage galvanized turkey feeder, I would like to add some Dutch iris for an extra splash of color. I have found that the deer love tulips so they will be moved to safety behind the fenced flower garden outside of my back door. I have a patch of Dutch iris and variegated bearded iris that need to be divided, I will be transplanting some around my front porch where they will live with the violets and clematis. When planting your bulbs, be sure you get them planted deep enough, about 5″ for smaller bulbs and about 8″ for larger ones. Adding a bit of bone meal to the bottom of each hole will promote root growth, but be aware that chickens, dogs or other critters may dig up the bulbs looking for the bones. Well drained soil is important, bulbs don’t like standing water.
My peonies also need to be divided and my hostas didn’t come back this year so I want to get them replaced too. Don’t plant them too deep, about 2″, or they won’t bloom. With some planning and a little work, I can change the whole look of my flower gardens without having to buy any more plants, except for the hostas of course. I have already begun gathering hollyhock, petunia and snapdragon seeds to plant in the spring. Fall is also my preferred time for planting trees and shrubs, just be sure not to over water before they go dormant.
In all of the rushing around to get everything ready before first frost, it’s easy to forget the plants that like cold weather and will still thrive for a bit longer. Pansies will do well, as will kale, spinach, cabbage and lettuce. My petunias and violets are still hanging on, I hope they will stay for a few more weeks.
I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love. ~Ephesians 3:16-17
Thanks for reminding us, we will have a hard freeze before you know it.
Yes, it was snowing here earlier today! Yikes!!