Avoid These Common Garden Mistakes This Fall
Get Inspired Week 107
“There is no season when such pleasant and sunny spots may be lighted on, and produce so pleasant an effect on the feelings, as now in October.” — Nathaniel Hawthorne
Now that fall is here, make sure you take the time to not only embrace the season with the vibrant jewel toned plants but to also set yourself up for success next year. A little effort now really lays the foundation for healthier plants and a dreamy garden next spring.
Not watering enough
Many people think that when fall arrives, you can stop watering. Your plants still need care! Just because it’s cool out doesn’t mean you neglect your watering routine. Also with climate change many zones still have very warm weather and dry spells.
Stopping weeding
Weeds are still going and it’s easy to burn out on this task. But when weeds take hold, they compete with your perennials for water and nutrients. Staying on top of weeding helps your perennials grow stronger and healthier without all that competition.
Skipping mulching
Can’t stress enough the importance of this task. Mulch helps protect the roots of your perennials in the winter. Your mulch should be 2-4 inches deep. Bonus: it helps with weeds and keeps a nice appearance for curb appeal.
Cutting back all perennials
Not all perennials need to be cut back for winter. Always do your research. Some perennials such as Russian sage and coral bells benefit with the extra foliage and protect the roots during the winter. Other perennials such as coneflower and black eyed Susan have seed pods which feed the birds.
Pruning back hydrangeas
Make sure you don’t cut back hydrangeas that bloom on old wood or you may lose next year’s blooms. The best time to prune these is right after they finish blooming, only trimming out dead branches or a few older stems.
Overlooking Annuals
By fall, most summer flowers are looking tired and ready to be replaced. You will be amazed how dramatically you can liven up your garden with just a few annuals. Those pops of color will give your garden a fresh look for the autumn season.
Misreading the tags
Those nurseries have a dazzling display of fall annuals in vibrant colors. However once frost hits many won’t survive. Make sure to read the plant tags and keep an eye on the forecast or you may be very disappointed.
Forgetting Bulbs
Bulbs are one of the best bangs for your buck for getting a showstopping garden. Don’t miss this great opportunity to add gorgeous blooms and be the envy of your block. You will be so happy you invested in the time when those dreamy daffodils and tulips pop up next spring.
I hope you are able to enjoy one of the most glorious times of the year, and get those beds prepared for what is to come next spring. I know I am already starting to get excited about what new blooms I am going to be planting.
Keep on dreaming,
Laura
Looking for more garden design inspiration? Check out our all-online, go-at-your-own-pace course: Designing Luxurious Gardens and Containers: The Inspired Garden Masterclass. With new garden and container designs dropping each season, we can help you achieve the garden of your dreams in 2025 and beyond. Join us today and learn how to design like the pros!