Even here in Minnesota, there are lots of trees, shrubs
and perennials that can be successfully planted late
in the growing season. When planting late, there are
a few helpful tips we can follow to help the plants
settle in and be ready when winter arrives. The shortening days and cooling
nights are nature’s signal to plants to begin preparing for winter. At this
time, plants redirect the products of photosynthesis to their roots for storage
and begin the long process of shutting down their above ground
parts to survive winter.
Trees and Shrubs
Be sure to keep track of how much water the tree or shrub receives from
the time it is planted until the ground freezes solid. It is important to
keep the soil evenly moist, but not wet. A common mistake is to overlook
the plant’s water needs once the weather is cooler and the deciduous
trees have lost their leaves. Avoid applying any fertilizer other than a plant
starter solution such as Bonide Start-up, a very mild solution that encourages root development. Using other fertilizer may encourage new growth.
New growth on woody plants (all evergreen and deciduous trees and
shrubs) need time to harden off before winter. New growth late in the
season is much more likely to be killed by freezing temperatures
Perennials
Plant perennials at least 6 weeks before the
ground freezes so they have enough time to
settle in. When the ground has frozen (usually
around mid-November), mulch the perennials
heavily to keep them evenly cold and prevent
alternate freezing and thawing (which damages
the new roots). If you are planting perennials
later than 6 weeks before the ground freezes, mulch them when you
plant. This will keep the ground warm longer, allowing them more
time to become established.
Cymbidium Orchids
Cymbidium plants are terrestrial and semi-terrestrial,
growing outdoors under lath in the tropics and thrive
particularly on the West Coast of North America, where
Southern California hopes to become the Cymbidium
center of the world. The plants have great solid pseudo
bulbs and very long grass-like leaves. From the depths
of this graceful foliage, the flowers climb along tall,
sturdy stems, usually erect, but drooping in some species. Remember
cymbidium orchids are native to the Himalayas and require strong dappled
sun and cool conditions with abundant air circulation for optimal growth.
They do well outside during the Minnesota spring, summer and fall. They
also make great houseplants thriving in cool temperatures in the house.
Cymbidium orchids are terrestrials and so do well in straight soil, although
they seem to do best on a rich, well-drained medium. When it comes to
cymbidium orchid care, use Schultz Orchid Plant food liquid fertilizer for these heavy feeders. Cymbidiums need moisture at the roots
at all times and correspondingly good drainage. Since these plants grow
enormous bulbs, a large pot is necessary. The time for repotting is late
spring when new growths are just beginning. Backbulbs are old pseudo
bulbs that have few if any leaves and these may be removed without
disturbing the plant. Backbulbs can be planted and new plants
can be started from the dormant eyes.
Schultz Orchid Plant Food
Schultz Orchid food is specially formulated to feed all types of orchids.
This orchid food is water-soluble, easily mixed with warm water.
Schultz’s formula is 19-31-17 for optimum growth and blooming.
Schultz’s formula also contains a number of micro-elements to maintain
healthy plants. Micro-nutrients like boron, copper, iron and manganese
are needed in small quantities to help the chlorophyll manufacture food
the orchids need to thrive. Orchids are generally slow-growing plants and
so it is important not to over fertilize. Schultz’s orchid food uses less
fertilizer but gets great results year after year.
Tips
Make sure bird feeders are clean and fresh seed is available.
Buckthorn is very visible in the fall because it stays green long after other
plants have lost their leaves. Use Vine-X in the fall to kill buckthorn - it works
even in cold weather.
Bag up dry leaves and store them for later this fall to use on gardens for
winter protection.
Don’t prune evergreens this time of year.
Fertilize the lawn in the fall - the University says it’s better than doing it in the spring.
Pumpkin Ideas
Vase - Start with a small-medium pumpkin and a beautiful fall bouquet.
Carve your pumpkin from the top, insert a liner, fill with water, cut the
stems (as needed) and drop right in. Set on plate and use as a
centerpiece or display on your mantel or coffee table.
Carving - Instead of carving your pumpkins from the top, try the
bottom. Not only is it easier to remove the seeds, it’s easier to light
the candle as well. We recommend using a keyhole saw for carving.
It’s easy to use, relatively safe and can do precision cuts
(you can find one at your local hardware store).
Fall scents - Don’t forget the cinnamon. Dust the inside of your
carved pumpkin with ground cinnamon and add a lit candle for a
homemade pumpkin pie scent.
Illumination - Another fun idea is to drill holes on all sides and insert
white Christmas lights. Hide the cords inside, cut out an area in the
back for the cord, and plug it in.
Flowers and gifts from Bachman’s make any day a special one. When you order your flowers or gifts online, you know you’ll be getting a beautiful fresh floral arrangement from a trusted florist known for outstanding floral design, plus quality and service.
If you’re sending flowers or gifts out of town, you can rely on us to choose the best florist from either the FTD or Teleflora nationwide flower network. Florists who can be counted on to deliver the best fresh floral arrangements and gifts, even when doing a same day delivery.
