WHAT TO PLANT
Annuals/Bedding plants: Even though temperatures are still warm, you can begin planting for the cooler months ahead. Dianthus, petunia, and pansy are good annuals for the fall garden.
Bulbs: If you’re into bulb planting, you can plant agapanthus, amaryllis, rain lily, and many varieties of lilies now for blooms next spring or summer. Add organic matter to the planting bed for best results.
Herbs: A wide range of herbs can be planted from seeds or plants this month. Some examples include parsley, cilantro, chives, garlic, and sage.
Vegetables: Plant crops now that will grow and produce throughout the winter months. This includes broccoli, collards, kale, lettuce, and others.
WHAT TO DO
Lawn weeds: Control winter weeds in lawns before they appear. Preemergence herbicides must be applied at the right time to be effective. You should apply when nighttime temperatures are 55°F–60°F for 4–5 days. Avoid “weed and feed” products.
Ornamental trees and shrubs: Fertilize plants that are not performing as desired. Controlled-release fertilizer provides nutrients over a longer period of time.
Lawn fertilization: Early October is the last time to fertilize the lawn. Choose a fertilizer (not a “weed and feed”) with little or no phosphorus unless a soil test indicates the need for it. A fertilizer with controlled-release nitrogen will give longer-lasting results.
Strawberries: If you plan to grow strawberries for next spring, you should prepare the beds and set the strawberry plants this month. Strawberries also make a colorful and tasty container planting. Either way, make sure you water daily until the plants are established.
Winter landscapes: Consider planting evergreen hollies; their bright berries add color to the landscape when other plants have died back for the winter. Water well when planting and mulch to minimize weeds.