Organization and pre-planning can help you breeze through your fall gardening work load, and get you in great shape for spring planting.
Have you been making a list of all the jobs that need tending to in your garden this fall? It takes a little time to pre-plan your work, but it really does save time in the long run. Take advantage of rainy days for gathering all your supplies and tools together. Then, when the weather is favourable, you are all set to go to work and to tackle the jobs in their proper order. For instance, if you have your tools, bulb dust, bonemeal, manure, peat moss and loam all at hand, you will be able to lift gladiola corms, prepare your planting bed and plant fall bulbs all on the same day. With the unpredictable weather we've been having you really need to be organized to take advantage of the good days when they do come.
How would you like a waist-shrinker, weight-reducer and a sleep inducer with no harmful side effects? Well, put on your overalls and roll up your sleeves.
According to the National Heart and Stroke Association, raking leaves burns off 360 calories per hour. But that's not the main reason I like raking leaves. There is something about the way they crackle and smell that takes me back to my childhood. It feels so good to be out working up an appetite in the crisp autumn air. Besides, I know that it's not just good fun to clean up your garden in the fall. It's necessary to your garden's well-being. It's the best way to guard against mold, disease and the possibility of little rodents making themselves at home in your yard.
You haven't been getting the most out of your garden if you don't enjoy it in the winter too. Keep in mind when you're fall planting evergreens, trees and shrubs that variations in colour and form are especially important in your winter landscape. The different textures and barks of deciduous trees and shrubs can add interest. There are additional ways besides vegetation to liven up your yard. Set out some bird feeders, seed and suet. Then sit back and watch. You will be surprised at how enjoyable winter can be.
Remember though, it you do start a bird-feeding program, continue it through until spring. That way you won't confuse the wildlife and they will reward you by coming back day after day.
| CONTAINER CORNER |
Empty pots into the compost as frost destroys the flowers. Clean them out with a mild bleach solution and store them upside down for the winter.
Garden Tip: If your summer efforts with your compost pile have been successful, try screening the compost through a garden sieve and using it for nutritious top-dressing on your lawn this month.
