As November approaches, gardening enthusiasts can take advantage of the cooler temperatures to prepare their tender bulbs, particularly dahlias and cannas, for winter storage. These bulbs are vulnerable to hard freezes and should ideally be dug up and stored until spring. For those looking to maintain their lawns, it’s also an opportune time for mowing and edging, as well as for planting spring-flowering bulbs. If you’re opting to bring any outdoor plants indoors to serve as houseplants during the winter months, it is crucial to inspect them thoroughly for pests such as slugs and snails that may be hiding beneath the containers or within the soil.
Dahlias are particularly recommended for novice gardeners due to their ease of growth and the stunning blooms they provide. A frequent query among gardeners is whether they can leave dahlia tubers in the ground through the winter. The answer can vary based on personal preference and local conditions. In well-drained soils or raised beds, lightly covering or mulching the dahlias after cutting down the stems may suffice. However, dedicated gardeners who want to guarantee the health of their plants typically dig up the tubers, allowing them to dry indoors, before storing them in a cool, dry environment until they’re replanted in May.
For those wanting to increase their dahlia stock, it is possible to divide the tubers after digging them up. This process can be learned through tutorial videos or by consulting more experienced gardeners. The growing popularity of dahlias in regions like Western Washington presents an exciting opportunity to expand one’s garden with different varieties. As flower farmers try their hand at growing new types, there is always the chance of stumbling upon a stunning new dahlia variety to enjoy.
In addition to dahlias, gardeners may also consider autumn and winter-blooming camellias. Specifically, the camellia sasanqua variety blooms in time for Christmas and comes in shades of red, white, and pink. For successful growth in areas like Tacoma, it’s advisable to plant these camellias in sheltered spots where they can be protected from harsh winter weather. Positioning them near the house, perhaps alongside a garage, can help shield them from wind and rain while creating a beautiful display of flowers that greets visitors.
Moreover, if you’re contemplating the movement of peony plants, November is an ideal month for this task. It’s the right time to introduce new peony roots into the landscape or to relocate existing ones. As part of the preparation for winter, it’s also recommended to prune back peony foliage, which helps prevent diseases that could thrive over the winter months. While planting peonies, the critical factor is to ensure that the growth point, or eye, is just below the soil surface; planting too deep is a common mistake that can prevent these beautiful plants from flowering.
Those interested in these gardening tips can benefit from the expertise of horticulturists like Marianne Binetti, who emphasizes the importance of knowing the best practices for planting and caring for various plants throughout the gardening season. With a degree in horticulture and a wealth of knowledge encapsulated in her written works, Binetti offers invaluable advice for both novice and seasoned gardeners eager to make the most of their fall planting activities. For more in-depth insights and assistance, garden enthusiasts can reach out to her through her garden website.