September brings shorter days and cooler soil temperatures, making this month an ideal time to spruce up and plant in the landscape.

Gardeners and plants appreciate less heat and fewer garden pests. Now is a great time to plant trees, shrubs and perennials. Soil temperatures are warm enough to support root establishment before frost initiates dormancy.

Consider adding plants that have both Fall and Winter interest. Fall color adds drama and evergreens add Winter color. Some plants with fabulous Fall color include Japanese Maple, Crape Myrtle, Dogwoods (both trees and red and yellow twig shrubs), Itea, Fothergilla, Beautyberry, Clethra, Aronia, and ornamental grasses. Fall blooming perennials include Aster, Goldenrod, Sedum and others.

Tend your landscape beds by deadheading and dividing perennials. Division helps prevent overcrowding and improves blooming next season. Asters, Goldenrod and Sedum do double duty by providing birds with seeds in Fall through Winter. Add bulbs like Daffodils, Crocus and Hyacinth for a cheerful pop of color in early Spring.

Refresh your containers with Mums, Pansies, ornamental Cabbage & Kale, Dusty Miller, Snapdragon, Asters and ornamental grasses for colorful arrangements in sunny locations. Shady porches will shine with a mixture of Heuchera, Ferns, Ajuga and ornamental grasses.

Layer some Tulip bulbs for added color in Spring. Fertilize with water soluble products to encourage growth and blooms throughout the season. Add Fall, Christmas and Winter embellishments to keep the arrangement fresh and interesting.

Harvest warm season vegetables before planting cool season options. Freeze herbs that will succumb to frost. Fall crops to consider include: Broccoli, Cauliflower, Cabbage, Kale, Brussels sprouts, Collards, Lettuce, Spinach, Mustard greens, Turnips, Radishes, Carrots and Beets.

Be sure to add a layer of compost to your vegetable bed and fertilize with Espoma Garden Tone to push growth. Cooler soil temperatures benefit these plants with a sweeter flavor.

Garden Club will meet this month on Tuesday, September 8th at 10am in the pavilion. We will discuss the benefits of planting in Fall and will showcase the plants that reward you with Fall and Winter interest. Register on our website and come meet new friends.