Gardening Checklist for October-November

Fall rains and cooler weather have finally arrived (at least for a little while). It makes getting outside to work in the garden a much more pleasant experience than it was during the past several months. Here are a few things to consider doing before the cold weather of winter sets in:

• Purchase started plants of pansies, snapdragons, dianthus, flowering kale, and flowering cabbage for attractive winter and spring color in the garden. 
• A final application of fertilizer can be put on your lawn early this month if you failed to fertilize in September. A ratio of about 3-1-2 is usually recommended, though some think the nitrogen could be higher. 
• Most vegetables should already be growing in your garden, but spinach, chard, garlic cloves, radishes, snow peas, parsley, and onion seed can still be planted. 
• Clean and sharpen all hand tools and cover all metal parts with a light coating of oil to prevent rust before storing for the winter. 
• Scale insects on broad-leafed evergreens such as Camellia, Gardenia, Holly, and Euonymus can be effectively controlled by spraying with dormant oil. Do not use oil spray if the temperature is expected to go above 80 degrees. 
• Keep checking regularly for aphids and caterpillars on fall flowers and vegetables. 
• If you are thinking about planting a new tree in your landscape, fall is a great time to do it. Several local garden centers have very good prices on their trees now. 
• Our first winter freeze can come anytime after the end of October. Now is the time to get your winter gear (faucet covers, row covers, etc.) ready for when you need them. 

Until next month, good gardening! (Editor)