Time for Action
By Samara Eisner, Olbrich horticulturist
 Illustration by Wes Martin |
November is a hard month for gardeners. It’s a no-man’s-land between last year’s season and the upcoming one. However, there is still plenty to do to protect your plants during the winter and get ready for the upcoming gardening season. Here are a few quick tips:
- Place wire screen around fruit trees, roses and other susceptible shrub and tree trunks to protect them from rodent damage.
- Water all needle and broadleaf evergreens one last time before the ground freezes. Winter wind and sun will continue to demand water from these plants through their leaves all winter. Excess water loss can lead to “winter burn” or death.
- Don’t forget to bring in your terra-cotta pots. Winter frosts and harsh weather can cause pots to crack and flake, shortening their lifespan.
- Do you have a garden action notebook? This is the time to make “action” notes. Before you forget what plants you want to divide in the spring, move to new locations or research over the winter, take a few action notes. You’ll appreciate the reminders in the spring!
Visit Olbrich’s outdoor gardens for ideas on plants with autumn and winter interest including late blooms, leaf color, fruits, berries, seed heads, and interesting bark and form.
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