It's fall: dig in!

Fall is a great season to plant most trees and shrubs, and, not coincidentally, Berkeley Hort has just received its annual shipment of Japanese Maples and Magnolias, as well as a multitude of Rhododendrons, Camellias, and Azaleas.

If they have not already dropped their leaves, the Japanese Maples are showing some fall color, and most varieties of Camellia sasanqua are in bloom.

The selection of these plants is at its peak now, so drop by soon

November Checklist

• Cut back floppy or overgrown perennials.
• Last chance for spring-flowering bulb planting (check your fridge).
• Plant cool weather annuals like Iceland Poppies, Violas and Primulas.
• Apply an organic plant food for slow release.
• Be vigilant for cool weather weeds like bluegrass and oxalis.

December Checklist

• Deadhead (remove spent flowers from) Chrysanthemum relatives.
• Clean and organize your garden tools.
• Give cymbidium orchids bloom food.
• Sow wildflower seeds.
• Turn that compost!