Cool nights and warm days are what we are feeling now. It is a great time to plant just about anything. For color pansies, snapdragons, dianthus, calendula, and stock will bloom thru winter, especially if they are planted next to a building or house. You can plant just about any type of tree or shrub. October gardening in cool weather is the perfect time to plant your tree!

The soil stays warm, which will help keep roots growing. The above ground temperatures are cooling down considerably, which reduces the need for constant watering. This combination will help get these plant a real good jump start for next spring.

Palm trees, small oleanders, red bird of paradise may do better if planted in the spring, summer, as opposed to fall and winter. Our sub freezing temps may injure these plants if planted too late. You may use a "winterizer" fertilizer to help protect less hardy specimen or valued plants that may get winter damage. This type of fertilizer has a higher amount of potash.

Potash will help strengthen winter hardiness in most plants. Don't forget to reduce watering on established plants during this time of year. If they are watered too much at this time of year they may produce "lush" growth which is subject to winter damage.

This does not mean you need to stop watering. Most plants will need occasional watering in the winter months. Watering 2 to 3 times per month during the winter months will suffice.

Do not fertilize after October 31st, except for cool season grasses. Again as mentioned above pansies, and viola's will provide you with winter color from now until next spring (April, May). If you have any questions please email us at This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it

The article below can be viewed online at: http://www.guzmansgreenhouse.com/seasons/octobergardentips.htm