Mother nature is sure is holding onto summer as long as she can. Maybe the cool down will happen this week, but otherwise, we will continue to drink our Pumpkin Spice Lattes in the heat…maybe it should be an ICED pumpkin spice latte.
Even though the temperature might be higher, the change of the sun, thus, change in the daytime sunlight, has put most of our plants on notice that winter is coming. You will start to see changes in the leaves (unfortunately, it might not be as colorful as years past due to the lack of rain). Perennials are getting ready as well.
You guys have a few options as you get your flower beds ready for winter. You can cut everything back now and refresh mulch or you can wait until spring. I say this because birds will take advantage of anything that has a seed head for food, underbrush is great for hiding out and keeping them safe in the winter from predators, too.
Now let’s talk about leaves. Leaves are nature’s way of adding compost to the soil. In the past I’ve move them to our flower beds to decompose. Also keep in mind that several good bugs will use the leaves to overwinter. Might save you some time and money to keep them in your yard.
Start thinking about digging up your elephant ears, caladiums, cannas, gingers, etc. to bring them indoors (dry and cool) so you can have them planted next year in the spring. If you brought your tropicals outdoors for the summer, time to find room to bring them back in.
Well, that’s all for now, going to play in the dirt!
Christy
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