Autumn is the time to plant your spring flowering bulbs such as daffodils, crocus, hyacinths and snowdrops.  Tulips should be planted a little later in October.  Bulbs are easy to plant and provide a spectacular show in the spring, especially when planted in groups. They also look lovely as a border planting. Be sure to pay attention to the different heights of each when incorporating into your garden.

Bulbs prefer a sunny location, and well-drained soil. Be sure to amend the soil with peat and compost so that the soil contains nutrients, and is well-aerated. To plant, simply dig a hole wide and deep enough for each bulb.  Measure the bulb from base to tip and triple the number – that is the planting depth.  Place the bulb into the hole with the top (narrow part) facing up.  Space bulbs at least twice their width apart.  Cover with soil and water them in. There is no need to water continuously after planting.  Now all you have to do is wait until spring!

If you haven’t noticed yet, fall foliage has already started to pop up throughout our region.  Leaves are beginning to get early gold and red tinges, and the chilly morning air really is getting that lovely fall smell.

Fall this year however, has come a bit early. Foliage typically peaks mid-October and lasts through early November, but the dry weather we’ve had has sparked the change early.

Though we instruct folks on how to properly water their trees/shrubs in the first year, one thing to heed especially during this time is caring for young trees. The dry conditions can be quite hard on them, so staying on top of watering is very important.

Although Mother Nature is ahead of the game, you can too with a little extra TLC to ensure happy trees.  Until then, sit back and enjoy the early fall colors!