Of all our seasons, this time poses the greatest challenge for gardeners. In most parts of this country it is safe to assume that nights will be cool, while daytime temperatures will be mild; making for a pronounced “end-of-season”. In Coastal California on the other hand, we can experience warm weather during September, and not begin to feel the seasonal change until the middle of October or later.

SEPTEMBER CHECKLIST

• Water young trees deeply to reduce leaf scorch.
• It’s harvest time. Share your bounty with friends, neighbors, coworkers.
• Visit farmer’s markets; make notes of varieties for next year’s edible garden.
• A mild plant food like fish emulsion will benefit your potted garden.
• Withhold water from your Amaryllis (Hippeastrum) plants this month.
• Make sure your garden is fire-safe. See us for recommendations.

OCTOBER CHECKLIST

• Buy flower bulbs now. You can plant later if necessary.
• Our first rains come this month. Adjust your watering system accordingly.
• Plant Iceland Poppies now for a spectacular winter display.
• Sow your cover crop seeds as the weather cools down.
• Come see the new Japanese Maples before leaf-drop.