FALL GARDENING TIPS (2010)

Deer-Resistant Bulbs

Our Chesapeake Bay area continues to deal with deer that feed on garden bulbs. Considered planting Daffodils, Alliums and Lycoris bulbs, hardy in our planting Zone 6B. There are many varieties to choose from to naturalize in your landscape. When massed, these bulbs are impressive and produce a burst of color and fragrance that can wake up your gardens. Planting groups of each of these bulbs offer blossoms through our growing season. Daffodils bloom first in April/May, Alliums in June/July and Lycoris in July/August.

Fall Perennials and Shrubs

Fall offers an opportunity to plant perennials and shrubs that bloom during this final season of the year. Asters, Anemones, Chrysanthemums, Sedum, Colchium, Itea (Virginia Sweetspire), and Oak Leaf Hydrangeas are just a few landscape choice plants that offer continued bloom from late August through October. Many of these shrubs are native to our area.

Dividing Perennials

Fall is the best time to be dividing perennials such as Shasta daisy, Coreopsis, Rudbeckia (Black Eyed Susan), Penstemon, Hosta's and Ornamental grasses such as Pennisetum and Miscanthus. Every 5 years it is recommend that you divide these plants to maintain the longevity that they provide. Division is usually started when growth resumes in the Spring.

The process starts by digging around the plant and then lifting the entire clump out of the ground. Then, using a spade or sharp knife, start to cut the clump up so that each clump is the size of a quart or gallon-sized perennial.