Putting Your Beds to Sleep

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by Annie Higgins
on Tuesday, October 19, 2010

The cooler weather is here and is gently reminding us that our garden beds are ready to be tucked in for the long winter's sleep. This cooler weather lessens the stress on plants and makes for an optimum time to move and divide crowded perennials such as daylilies, hostas and irises. Now is also a good time to remove unhealthy or diseased looking plants. If they weren't healthy this past season, you may consider removing and discarding them so diseases aren't spread to other plants in your garden. A good example of this is phlox. If your phlox or bee balm had lots of powdery mildew with the spring rains, consider moving it to an area that gets more sun and air circulation.

It is also a good idea to cut down stems and foliage of herbaceous perennials when the leaves begin to brown.

Late-fall tilling of your garden can help control insects because it exposes overwintering insects to cold conditions. It also makes spring soil preparation easier. Mulch will add a layer of protection from low temperatures.

While winter is peeking its head around the corner, as gardeners we're not quite ready for bed just yet.

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About the Author - Annie Higgins

Contact Annie Higgins:
Higgins Horticultural Services
www.landscapehiggins.com

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