The Zoomer Report: Fall Gardening Tips

Not only can you give your green space a new look — there are also things you should be doing now to prepare for next summer’s garden. Here’s a checklist from Best Health magazine.

Wrap your evergreens and rose shrubs with burlap, especially if they’re growing near a large deciduous tree, like maple, oak or birch. Gardeners say when all the leaves fall off these trees, nearby bushes will be exposed to full sun, and it’s too hard on them because they aren’t used to the direct sunlight.

It’s a great time to plant autumn annuals like flowering kale, as well as bulbs for next spring. It’s also a good idea to map out your garden so you won’t forget where they are and plant more next year, or dig up what you’ve already planted!

Start digging up and potting tender perennials, like canna lilies and geraniums, and move them indoors. They won’t survive once the nighttime temperature drops below 10°C. The experts say the best conditions are when the soil is cool and wet. The fall is also a great time for dividing plants, like hostas. Just use a sharp shovel and cut right into them. Replant them in the garden right away or share with a neighbour.

Photo ©iStockphoto.com/ AtWaG

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About The Zoomer Report

Libby Znaimer, a prominent Canadian journalist specializing in business, politics, and lifestyle issues, is producer and host of The Zoomer Report, a special feature on topics of interest to baby boomers and the 50+. It covers everything from health and wealth to leisure and volunteerism, from the special vantage point of the generation that has changed society in its wake.

Ms. Znaimer is also Vice-President of News and Information for Classical 96.3FM and AM740. Her first book, “In Cancerland – Living Well Is The Best Revenge” – was published in October 2007 by Key Porter.

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