September's yard checklist

Did you know perennial weeds are much more susceptible to herbicide weed killers in the fall?  As they prepare for cooler weather, they spend less energy making fancy foliage above the ground and start drawing energy into the root.  So fall is the perfect time to hit them with the weed killer.  They take it into the root more readily than they do in the summer.  So get out the sprayer and get rid of those perennial weeds for good this month.

The cooler weather of September also allows you to get outside and do big projects like adding pavers, paths, and retaining walls to your landscape.  As the foliage begins to fade away, it is easy to see the bones of your yard and where a path or wall might fit in perfectly.

Right now you can notice where the gaps are in your perennial borders and flower beds.  You can see where you need to add a punch of color for next year.  You can either add some beautiful new fall blooming plants or start dividing some of the perennials you already have and transplant them when the weather cools a bit. Just remember to keep them watered if you transplant right now. And just so the newly established roots won't have so much upper foliage to provide for, a nice trim would be helpful when you transplant them.

There are hundreds of fall blooming beauties to plant now including fall mums
and asters, but Autumn Joy Sedum is a definite favorite.

Everyone loves the look of spring bulbs shooting up in the early spring. Most of us wish we had planted some the previous fall to usher in the spring.  Well, now is the time to order or pick up spring blooming bulbs.  They need to be planted in the fall to get that cold dormant period taken care of for beautiful spring blossoms. 

Just because the kids are back in school doesn't mean you can forget about your hanging pots and planters or think its time for them to be finished.  Keep dead heading them.  They will last for a long time yet!  So much color and beauty can still be yours for weeks and weeks!

Fall is also the perfect time to plant new trees, shrubs, and any perennials. They get a bit of a head start when planted in the fall and will grow quite well in the spring.  And, you may find some incredible deals on trees and shrubs that nurseries don't want to winter over themselves.

If you've been thinking about adding lawn area in your yard, grass seed grows great in the fall because of the cooler weather and usually more abundant rain and moisture.  Consider fall grass planting in areas that may be getting a little thin as well.

Dividing irises in the dog days of summer can be hot and sweaty work, but that job can be done through September.  If you have a batch of irises that didn't bloom so great this summer, it may be time to divide them and give them a little more space.  Right now is the perfect time to get that done. 

Enjoy the little crisp feeling in the air as you go about your home, yard, garden work for the next few weeks.  It feels so nice!

Brought to you by Heath Harvey @ HeathsHomes.com