Autumn Colors!
saiflower (CC0), Pixabay
Last month we talked about getting the soil ready for new annuals and perennials. Well, now it’s time for the fun part…shopping! Here are some tips to make sure you get the beautiful look you want:
1. With Pinterest and other online crafty sites to visit, it’s easy to get creative! But even if you aren’t confident about your ideas, no problem, just bring in some photos of your space and we will walk you through it. And remember, there is no right or wrong, it is all about what works for YOU!
2. Wondering about options? Well, there are so many different varieties of violas, pansies, mums and asters, there is no limit to the possibilities! As you start the planning process, mix it up by adding different textures into the annual planting areas. Hardy ornamental grasses that bloom in the fall, such as muhly grass, and fall blooming perennials like Autumn Joy sedum add a different dimension to the landscape and accent annual planting well. Heucheras, camellias and autumn ferns can give you Fall color that will come back year after year, either in your landscape or your containers!
3. One thing that does matter is quality… because if you don’t start with good soil and plant materials, your plantings won’t last long! For example, smaller pansies with a dark green color and a compact shape are better than a bigger plant with pale color. Don’t cheap yourself out of a good color display!
4. Don’t forget to fertilize, mulch and water your new plants in. Encourage blooming by fertilizing with Ferti-Lome Premium Pansy Food, which has a high phosphate number reflected by the middle number on the package. Supplement with water soluable, high phosphate fertilizer, such as BR-61, during the fall, winter and early spring. Plants are growing when temperatures are above 45 degrees for a few days. Treat the planted areas with a pre-emergent for weed control of winter weeds. Applying at least 3 inches of mulch will also discourage weed growth and help the soil retain moisture. Water your plants regularly, and enjoy the blooms!
5. Most importantly, enjoy this wonderful season!