Here comes cooler weather and the holiday season. Not only are there plenty of jobs to do, but this is a perfect month to take a little time out to relax in the garden. Being out in nature is a wonderful, natural and free way to reduce stress during the hustle and bustle of the holiday season. So don't forget to use your garden to indulge in a little rest and relaxation in November.
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Check out all the fun new introductions and consider experimenting with some plant varieties you've never tried as the new seed and plant catalogs come out.
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Consider developing an unused piece of your property or renovating an existing part of the garden. November is a perfect time of the year to plan and build in your landscape design. The weather is cooler for working and professional help is more readily available than during the spring rush.
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Plant hardy plants and native flower seed. Scatter wildflower seeds just before predicted rains so they will get a good start before the wildlife gobbles them up.
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Continue to plant onion and garlic sets and other cool season crops like peas, cabbage, broccoli, Swiss chard and Chinese greens.
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Feed fish in ponds with winter food and stop feeding them altogether when water temperatures fall below 50'F. Remove delicate water plants to a frost-free location if frost can be a problem in your area.
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Keep your landscape clean of blowing refuse to avoid breeding pests and building up material that could ignite should you live where wildfires could threaten.
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Spread a layer of mulch over gardens to protect roots from cold nights.
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Start pruning and trimming woody plants and roses so they are in good shape to start new growth at the end of the winter.
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Plant spring blooming bulbs now.
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Set up rain barrels or other water collection tubs to reuse rainwater in the garden during dry periods.
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Set back sprinkler systems and consider replacing water-thirsty lawns with more decorative, easier-care drought-resistant gardens.
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Have fun decorating your landscape for the holidays, but keep safety in mind at all times.
And, once again, remember to take some time out to enjoy and relax in your garden during the busy month of November!
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