Mahoney's Garden Center / info-library
September 27, 2024 In Annuals, info-library, Perennials, Seasonal

Creating the Perfect Fall Window Box

Autumn is here! See how Julia spruces up our Winchester store fall window boxes and front entrance with festive annuals and perennials.

The recipe for this delicious window box is as follows:

  • Echinacea
  • Celosia
  • Ornamental Grass
  • Swiss Chard
  • Jacob’s Ladder
  • Ornamental Cabbage or Kale
  • Ornamental Peppers
  • Mums
  • Sugar Pumpkins

 

For more fall foliage ideas check out our newest blog post on mum alternatives!

 

Make it easy: Order Pickup for Plants Here!

 

 

September 20, 2024 In Blog, Feature, featured, info-library, Trees and Shrubs

Green Giants of New England: Caring for Arborvitae and Western Red Cedar

If you’re looking to add some green charm to your New England garden, Arborvitae and Western Red Cedar is a great choice! These evergreen trees and shrubs not only add year-round beauty but also privacy and character to your landscape. In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about caring for these popular plants in New England.

 

Choosing the Right Variety

Before you dive into planting Arborvitae or Western Red Cedar, it’s essential to choose the right variety that suits your landscape and environmental conditions. Consider factors like light requirements, mature size, foliage color, and growth rate.

For Full Sun to Light Shade: American Arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis)

  • Emerald Green (‘Smaragd’)
  • Dark American (‘Nigra’)
  • Degroot’s Spire
  • American Pillar
  • Golden Globe

For Full Sun to Shade: Western Red Cedar (Thuja plicata)

  • Green Giant
  • Steeplechase
  • Whipcord
  • Forever Goldy

 

 

Western Red Cedars at Mahoney's in Winchester

Western Red Cedars at Mahoney’s in Winchester

Planting Tips

Follow these guidelines for successful Arborvitae and Western Red Cedar transplantation:

Soil Requirements: Ensure your soil drains well. Amend heavy clay soils with organic matter and gypsum. These plants have broad root systems, so dig a hole at least twice as wide as the root ball to encourage root spread.

Care in the First Two Years: Pay special attention during the first two years after planting. Adequate watering, especially during dry spells, is critical.
Fertilizing: Apply all-purpose slow-release fertilizer in early spring before new growth fully emerges. Fall fertilizing at half the spring amount helps establish healthy root systems.

Pruning: Arborvitae typically don’t require much pruning, but if needed, shear the outermost growth in late spring to shape or manage size. Start early to avoid overgrowth.

 

For a handy, printable version of this information, check out our Arborvitae and Western Red Cedar care guide!

 

Printable Care Guide

 

You can also watch our Proper Planting video with Patrick on the basics of planting a tree or shrub!

Common Problems and Solutions

Heat Stress: Hot, dry weather can induce heat stress and invite spider mite infestations. Ensure regular, deep watering to boost plant vigor and natural defenses.

Bagworm Moths: While not typically destructive, bagworms can cause unsightly defoliation. Hand removal is often sufficient or use organic pesticides like Neem Oil for larger infestations.

Deer Damage: In areas with high deer populations, consider planting Western Red Cedar (Thuja plicata) as it’s less favored by deer compared to Eastern Arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis).

 

Seasonal Needle Drop

Don’t panic if your Arborvitae turns brown inside during fall; it’s a natural process called seasonal needle drop. Fresh growth in spring will fill in any gaps left by this process.

 

Fall Watering

Keep your Arborvitae and other evergreens well-hydrated in autumn, as it prepares them for the harsh winter conditions common in New England. Water regularly from September through early December to reduce winter stress. For more information on establishment watering for newly planted trees, see our printable Planting Guide. 

 

Varieties

Here are some popular Arborvitae cultivars carried at Mahoney’s Garden Centers:

American Arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis)

  • Emerald Green ‘Smaragd’
  • Dark American ‘Nigra’
  • Degroot’s Spire
  • American Pillar
  • Golden Globe

Western Red Cedar (Thuja plicata)

  • Green Giant
  • Steeplechase
  • Whipcord
  • Forever Goldy

 

Please note that actual plant characteristics may vary depending on soil, sunlight, and water conditions.

 

Incorporating Arborvitae and Western Red Cedar into your New England or Boston garden can be a delightful addition, providing year-round beauty, privacy, and resilience. These versatile plants, with proper care and maintenance, will thrive in your outdoor space, enhancing its charm for years to come.

 

Shop a wide selection of Arborvitae and Wester Red Cedar in-store and select varieties online.

Shop Online

 

 

September 17, 2024 In info-library

Video: Nancy Creates a Fall Container Display Mixing Annuals and Perennials

Watch as Nancy uses a blend of annuals and perennials to create a fall container garden. Who says you can’t mix annuals and perennials in the same container! Here Nancy mixes woods purple aster (Eurybia spectabilis), ornamental grass (Pennisetum rubrum), Heuchera sanguinea, ornamental cabbage (Brassica oleracea), pansies (Viola × wittrockiana), and a pumpkin!

September 12, 2024 In Blog, Feature, featured, info-library, Lawn and Garden

Planting Cold Crops in the Fall: What to Grow and How to Harvest

Fall is a great time to plant cold crops that thrive in cooler temperatures and give you a fresh, healthy harvest well into the colder months. These vegetables and herbs are perfect for extending your gardening season and adding vibrant greens and flavors to your fall meals. If you’re looking to grow cold-hardy crops, the following are ideal choices for fall planting:

 

Let’s dive into why fall is the perfect time to plant cold crops and some helpful tips on harvesting them.

Why Plant Cold Crops in the Fall?

  1. Cooler Temperatures for Optimal Growth: Many cold crops prefer cooler weather and actually thrive in fall conditions. With lower daytime temperatures and crisp nights, these crops grow with less heat stress compared to summer months.
  2. Frost Tolerance: Some cold crops can handle light frosts, which can enhance their flavor, particularly in leafy greens like kale and Swiss chard. As the temperature dips, the starches in the plants convert to sugars, making them taste sweeter.
  3. Fewer Pests: The fall season brings relief from some common garden pests that can wreak havoc on crops in the warmer months, allowing for healthier plants and more abundant harvests.
  4. Extended Harvest Season: By planting these crops in the fall, you can extend your garden’s productivity right up until winter, giving you a longer period to enjoy fresh, homegrown produce.

 

Cold Crops to Plant This Fall

Arugula

Why Plant: Arugula grows fast and adds a peppery flavor to salads and sandwiches. It thrives in cool temperatures and can be harvested multiple times during the fall.
Harvest Tip: Pick the outer leaves when they are 3-4 inches long for continuous growth. Younger leaves are milder, while older ones have a more intense flavor.

Broccoli Raab

Why Plant: This fast-growing crop is perfect for fall, offering edible stems, leaves, and buds that are packed with nutrients
Harvest Tip: Harvest when the flower buds begin to form but before they fully open. Cut the main stem to encourage more side shoots for multiple harvests.

Bok Choi

Why Plant: Bok Choi is a versatile crop that prefers cool temperatures and can grow quickly in fall conditions.
Harvest Tip: You can harvest baby bok choi when it reaches about 6 inches in height, or wait for full-sized plants. Always cut at the base, leaving the roots for possible regrowth.

Cabbage & Chinese Cabbage

Why Plant: Both traditional and Chinese cabbage are cold-hardy and can produce large heads even with light frosts.
Harvest Tip: Harvest the heads when they are firm and compact. You can store them in cool conditions for several weeks after picking.

Kale

Why Plant: Kale thrives in the fall, becoming sweeter after the first frost. It’s a nutrient-dense green that grows well in cool weather.
Harvest Tip: Harvest the outer leaves as needed, leaving the inner leaves to continue growing. Frost makes the leaves sweeter, so don’t rush to pick them all before the temperatures drop.

Lettuce

Why Plant: Lettuce grows quickly and can be planted multiple times in the fall for successive harvests.
Harvest Tip: Cut leaves when they are 3-6 inches tall for baby greens, or let the entire plant mature for a full head harvest.

Peas

Why Plant: Peas are a great cold crop that can tolerate light frosts and provide a sweet harvest even in the fall.
Harvest Tip: Harvest pea pods when they are plump but not overly mature. Pick regularly to encourage more production.

Swiss Chard

Why Plant: Swiss chard is a beautiful, colorful crop that grows well in cool temperatures and can withstand light frost.
Harvest Tip: Pick the outer leaves when they are young and tender, allowing the plant to continue producing throughout the fall.

 

Herbs for Fall Planting

Chives

Why Plant: Chives are a hardy perennial that can be grown in the fall and provide a fresh, onion-like flavor to dishes.
Harvest Tip: Snip the leaves when they are at least 6 inches tall, and leave the plant’s base intact for continuous regrowth.

Mints

Why Plant: Mint is a resilient herb that thrives in cooler weather and can grow abundantly in fall.
Harvest Tip: Harvest mint regularly by cutting the stems just above a pair of leaves to encourage bushier growth.

Oregano

Why Plant: Oregano is a cold-hardy herb that can continue producing well into fall.
Harvest Tip: Trim the stems before the plant flowers for the best flavor, and use fresh or dry for long-term storage.

Sage

Why Plant: Sage is another hardy perennial herb that benefits from cooler weather, offering a rich, earthy flavor.
Harvest Tip: Pick individual leaves as needed or harvest entire stems just before flowering for the strongest flavor.

Tarragon

Why Plant: Tarragon prefers cooler temperatures and adds a unique, anise-like flavor to your culinary dishes.
Harvest Tip: Harvest tarragon leaves in the morning, before the sun intensifies, to capture the best flavor. Cut the stems and hang them to dry for later use.

Culinary Thyme

Why Plant: Thyme is a low-maintenance herb that grows well in cooler weather and adds depth to your dishes.
Harvest Tip: Harvest thyme just before the plant flowers for the most potent flavor. Snip small stems regularly to encourage new growth.

 

 

Tips for a Successful Fall Harvest

  • Monitor Frost: While many cold crops can handle a light frost, keep an eye on the weather and use row covers or mulch to protect your plants from hard freezes.
  • Succession Planting: To ensure a continuous harvest, plant cold crops in intervals throughout the fall. This way, you’ll always have something fresh and ready to pick.
  • Water Consistently: While temperatures may cool, your plants still need consistent watering to thrive. Avoid letting the soil dry out completely.
  • Mulch for Protection: Applying mulch can help regulate soil temperatures and protect your plants from frost while retaining moisture.

 

Final Thoughts

Planting cold crops in the fall is a fantastic way to keep your garden going as the weather cools down. With proper care, you’ll enjoy a variety of fresh greens, herbs, and veggies right up until winter. The best part? Cold crops often taste even better after a light frost, giving you a delicious, nutrient-packed harvest.

Visit Mahoney’s Garden Center for all the cold crop seeds, plants, and gardening supplies you need to keep your fall garden thriving!

SHOP NOW

 

 

Mahoney's Garden Center-New England-Massachussets-Native Trees and Shrubs for City Gardening-gardener mulching garden
September 11, 2024 In Blog, Feature, featured, info-library, Lawn and Garden

Mulch: Your Garden’s Best Friend for Winter Protection

Mulch is your garden’s best friend in winter. A thick layer of mulch (about 2-4 inches) will help insulate your plants’ roots and protect them from the harsh cold. This not only keeps the soil temperature more stable but also enriches it with nutrients for the coming spring.

As a New England garden center, we know how crucial it is to prepare your garden for the colder months. Here are compelling reasons why you should consider mulching now to ensure a thriving garden next year.

 

1. Spread Mulch in Late Summer or Early Fall

Applying mulch before the leaves fall provides added insulation against early fall freezes. This timing ensures your plants are protected right when they need it most.

  • Extra Water Retention: Mulching during this period helps retain moisture in the soil, benefiting plants stressed by summer heat.
  • Protection Against Fall Freezes: An early layer of mulch shields your plants from sudden temperature drops, reducing the risk of damage.

 

Person spreading mulch around garden plants with a rake to protect them for the winter.

 

2. Leaf Cleanup and Composting Benefits

By mulching before major leaf drop, you create an initial layer of soil protection beneath the leaves.

  • Jumpstart Compost Production: Early leaf cleanup in spring accelerates composting if that’s your goal. Mulched leaves decompose faster, enriching your soil.
  • Support Overwintering Pollinators: A mulch layer provides habitat for beneficial insects, promoting a healthier garden ecosystem.

 

3. Prevent Frost Heaves on Perennials and New Plants

A protective mulch layer helps prevent frost heaves, which can damage perennials and newly planted material by pushing them out of the ground during freeze-thaw cycles.

Stack of Hemlock mulch bags next to a potted plant at a garden center.

 

4. Retain Soil Moisture for Evergreens

Adding mulch to evergreen shrubs and trees keeps moisture in the soil during cold and dry winters, ensuring they remain healthy throughout the season.

5. Proper Mulching Techniques

  • Early Fall Mulching: When mulching in early fall, place the mulch close to but not on top of the plant’s crown. This prevents smothering the plant while still providing protection.
  • Late Fall Adjustment: Remember to revisit your garden around Thanksgiving to move the mulch closer to the plants for extra insulation as winter approaches.

Take Action Now for a Vibrant Spring Garden

Mulching is a simple step that pays off immensely when the warmer seasons return. It protects your plants, improves soil quality, and sets the stage for a beautiful, thriving garden.

Visit us at any of our Mahoney’s Garden Center locations to stock up on high-quality mulch. Our team is here to help you choose the right type for your garden’s needs. Or shop online here.

 

Image of fall
September 11, 2024 In Feature, featured, info-library

Fall Planting: The Secret to a Thriving Spring Garden

As the temperatures cool and the leaves start to change, many gardeners think it’s time to wind down, but fall is actually one of the best seasons to plant and prepare your garden for the future. Whether you’re thinking about trees, shrubs, perennials, herbs, veggies,  or even annuals, the benefits of fall planting are numerous and can set your garden up for success come spring. Let’s dig into why autumn should be your new favorite planting season!

 

 

  1. Cooler Temperatures Make for Happy Plants (and Gardeners!)

One of the biggest perks of fall planting is the cooler weather. Unlike the scorching heat of summer, fall offers mild temperatures, which are easier on both new plants and gardeners. Plants aren’t as stressed by the heat and don’t need as much water to thrive. You’ll also find gardening a lot more enjoyable when you’re not battling sweltering sun and humidity! 

 

  1. Perfect Time for Root Growth

During fall, plants focus their energy on growing strong, healthy roots instead of producing flowers and foliage. This is especially true for trees, shrubs, and perennials. The cooler soil encourages root growth, allowing plants to establish themselves before the ground freezes. Come spring, they’ll be ready to burst into life with a solid root system to support them! 

 

  1. Fewer Pests and Diseases

Pests and diseases tend to be less of a problem in the fall. With cooler temperatures and shorter days, many bugs go dormant, and some plant diseases also slow down. This means less need for pest control, giving your new plants a healthier start. 

 

  1. Better Selection of Trees and Shrubs

Many garden centers, including ours, offer a fantastic selection of trees and shrubs in the fall. The cooler weather also means less transplant shock when planting larger specimens. Plus, fall-planted trees and shrubs will have a head start over those planted in the spring, giving them extra time to settle in.   

Take a look at our video on how to plant trees and shrubs to make sure it starts off the season on the right foot!  Or download our planting guide here. 

 

large selection of trees and shrubs in New England garden center

 

  1. Plant Perennials for Year-Round Enjoyment

Fall is a great time to plant perennials, those hard-working plants that come back year after year. By planting in autumn, perennials like hostas, daylilies, and sedum can focus on establishing their roots. They’ll be stronger and more vigorous by spring, ready to deliver beautiful blooms and lush foliage.  First time planting perennials and want a few tips?  Check out our handy guide here. 

 

  1. Extend Your Harvest with Fall Veggies and Herbs

Don’t forget about fall veggies! Cool-weather crops like lettuce, kale, spinach, and broccoli thrive in the crisp fall air. You can also plant herbs like parsley and cilantro, which often struggle with summer’s heat but do great in the cooler months. With the right planning, you could be harvesting fresh greens well into autumn. 

 

  1. Annuals: Not Just for Summer

Yes, you can still plant annuals in the fall! Cool-season annuals like pansies, violas, celosia and ornamental kale provide color when many summer flowers have faded. They’re perfect for brightening up your fall landscape and can even tolerate light frosts. 

 

  1. Less Competition for Water

One of the advantages of planting in fall is the decreased demand for water. With cooler temperatures and more consistent rainfall, you’ll need to water less than in the dry, hot summer months. This helps new plants settle in more comfortably without as much effort on your part.  But if you still need some guidance, check out our blog on how to water new plants here! 

 

  1. More Time to Relax in Spring

By planting in the fall, you can get a head start on your spring garden. Come springtime, you’ll already have an established garden to enjoy rather than having to start everything from scratch. This gives you more time to relax and appreciate your garden when it’s at its peak. 

 

  1. Great Deals and Selection

As fall approaches, we start our yellow tag sale, a 33% off sale on items still available from our Spring shipments.  Please feel free to ask an employee or give us a call on specifics! This is a great opportunity to pick up high-quality trees, shrubs, and perennials at a lower cost. You’ll also find a wider selection of fall-blooming plants like mums, asters, and ornamental grasses. 

 

 

Fall planting offers so many advantages, from better root development to easier maintenance and less stress on your plants. So, whether you’re looking to add a new tree to your landscape, refresh your perennial beds, or extend your vegetable harvest, don’t wait until spring—fall is the perfect time to get planting!

 

Ready to dig in?  Visit us at any of our 7 locations, and let our experts help you select the best plants for your fall garden, or shop our online store.  Happy planting! 

 

Step-by-step guide to repotting houseplants in fall.
September 10, 2024 In Blog, info-library

Repotting Houseplants: A Simple Guide to Help Your Plants Thrive

Houseplants bring life and color to our homes, but like any living thing, they need the right environment to flourish. One of the key aspects of caring for your indoor plants is knowing when and how to repot them. Repotting can seem daunting, but it’s a straightforward process that can make a world of difference for your plant’s health. Let’s walk through the essentials of repotting, including how to tell when it’s time, why fall is an ideal season for the task, and some helpful tips to ensure your plants thrive.

 

How to Know When It’s Time to Repot

Houseplants grow over time, and as they do, their roots can become crowded in their current pots. There are a few signs to look out for that indicate it’s time to give your plant a bit more space:

  • Roots are Growing Out of the Drainage Holes: If you notice roots poking out from the bottom of the pot, it’s a clear sign your plant needs more room. 
  • Water Drains Quickly Through the Pot: When water runs right through the pot without being absorbed, it’s often because the roots have taken up most of the space, leaving little room for soil to hold moisture. 
  • The Plant Looks Top-Heavy or Outgrows the Pot: If your plant is starting to tip over or looks disproportionately large for its pot, it’s likely time to move it to a larger container. 
  • Soil Dries Out Too Quickly: If you find yourself watering more often because the soil is drying out too fast, this might be due to a root-bound plant that’s outgrown its pot. 

 

Why Fall is the Best Time to Repot 

Fall is an ideal time for repotting houseplants, and here’s why: 

Plants are Entering a Slower Growth Phase: In fall, many houseplants start to slow down as they prepare for the dormant winter months. Repotting at this time is less stressful for the plant because it’s not in a period of rapid growth. This allows the plant to settle into its new pot and root system more comfortably. 

Less Intense Sunlight: With the sun less intense in fall, your plants are less likely to experience the shock that can come with repotting during the peak growing season in spring and summer. 

Preparing for Winter: By repotting in fall, you give your plants a fresh start with new soil, which is essential as they head into the winter months when light levels are lower, and growth slows. 

 

Fresh potting mix in a new pot for repotting houseplants.

 

Steps for Repotting Your Houseplant 

Now that you know why fall is the perfect time to repot, let’s go over the basic steps: 

  1. Choose the Right Pot: Select a pot that is 1-2 inches larger in diameter than the current one. Make sure it has drainage holes to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot. Need help choosing the right container for you?  Watch our video to get you started!   You can also consider ‘cache potting’ to help with this as well.  
  2. Prepare the Plant: Water your plant a day before repotting to reduce stress and make it easier to remove from the pot. 
  3. Remove the Plant from the Pot: Gently tip the plant out of its current pot. You may need to tap the sides or use a tool to loosen the soil around the edges. 
  4. Loosen the Roots: If the roots are tightly bound, gently tease them apart. This encourages them to spread out in the new pot, helping the plant to establish itself more effectively. 
  5. Add Fresh Soil: Place a layer of fresh potting mix in the bottom of the new pot. Position your plant in the center and fill around it with more soil, leaving a small space at the top for watering. 
  6. Water Thoroughly: After repotting, water the plant well to help the soil settle around the roots. Make sure excess water drains out to avoid waterlogging.  For long-term watering tips, especially as we go into the cooler months, check out our blog here! 
  7. Place in a Suitable Location: After repotting, place your plant back in its usual spot. It may take a few weeks for it to adjust to its new home, so be patient and avoid overwatering during this time. 

 

Additional Tips for Successful Repotting 

  • Use High-Quality Potting Mix: A good potting mix is essential for providing the right nutrients and drainage for your plant. Avoid using garden soil, which can be too dense for houseplants. 
  • Be Gentle: Handle your plant and its roots with care to avoid damaging them during the repotting process. 
  • Don’t Overpot: Moving to a pot that’s too large can lead to overwatering issues because the soil will retain moisture longer than the plant can use it. Stick to a pot just two inches larger than your current one. 

 

Repotting your houseplants is an essential part of keeping them healthy and happy. By following these tips and choosing the right time, you’ll give your plants the best chance to thrive. Happy gardening! 

 

Person Repotting a plant
September 6, 2024 In Blog, Houseplants, info-library

How to Bring Houseplants Indoors: A Step-by-Step Guide

As temperatures drop, it’s time to start thinking about bringing your houseplants back indoors. Transitioning plants from the outdoor growing season to indoor conditions can be tricky, but with a little preparation, you can ensure your plants stay healthy and thriving all winter long. Here’s how to do it:

 

Preparing Your Plants

  1. Repotting (3-4 Weeks in Advance):
    Start by repotting your plants at least 3-4 weeks before bringing them inside. This allows your plants to settle into fresh soil, which helps control soil pests and gives them a chance to adjust before the move.
  2. Soak in Soapy Water:
    Another option, especially for plants that prefer moist soil, is to submerge the entire pot in mild, soapy water for about 15 minutes. This will help eliminate any soil hitchhikers like pests that may have settled in during the summer months.
  3. Clean the Leaves:
    Thoroughly clean the leaves with mild, soapy water to remove dirt, dust, and pests. After cleaning, let the foliage dry completely. This is an essential step to ensure your plants are free of any unwanted pests before they come inside.
  4. Inspect for Pests:
    Once the foliage is dry, carefully inspect the undersides of the leaves and crevices where pests often hide. If you find any remaining pests, treat them with an appropriate control product to prevent infestations indoors. We recommend using Bonide All Seasons Horticultural Oil to effectively eliminate pests ( and their eggs)  before bringing your plants inside. Simply apply it to the leaves and stems to ensure no bugs follow your plants indoors.
  5. Acclimate Your Plants:
    Acclimating your plants to indoor conditions is crucial for their health. Start by bringing them indoors at night and gradually increase the time they spend inside each day. This slow transition helps them adjust to lower light levels and indoor humidity.

Caring for Your Plants Indoors

  1. Reduce Watering and Feeding:
    Once your plants are inside, reduce watering and feeding. Indoor conditions are typically less humid, and overwatering can lead to root rot. Keep an eye on soil moisture and adjust your watering schedule accordingly. For more watering tips, read our blog on winter watering for houseplants.
  2. Use Supplemental Grow Lights:
    For plants placed in darker spaces, supplemental grow lights can make a big difference. You can easily place a grow bulb in your favorite lamp to provide the extra light your plants need to stay healthy during the winter months.

 

Image of Philodendron

 

By following these steps, you can ensure a smooth transition for your houseplants as they move back indoors. With a little care and attention, your plants will continue to thrive, bringing greenery and life to your indoor spaces all year long.

 

 

 

September 4, 2024 In Blog, info-library, Lawn and Garden

Maximize Your Garden’s Potential with Fall Fertilization

As the crisp autumn air sets in and the leaves begin to turn, it’s time to prepare your garden for the colder months ahead. Fall fertilization is an essential step in ensuring your trees, shrubs, and plants remain healthy and vibrant through the winter and into spring. Two of the best products for this task are Plant-tone and Holly-tone by Espoma. Here’s why you should consider adding these fertilizers to your fall gardening routine.

 

Why Choose Plant-tone and Holly-tone for Fall Fertilization?

Long-lasting Nutrient Supply Plant-tone and Holly-tone are designed to feed your plants gently and consistently for up to six months. As the ground freezes, these fertilizers temporarily halt their feeding process, resuming only when the soil thaws in spring. This gradual release ensures your plants receive the nutrients they need throughout the winter without overwhelming them.

 

Tailored for All Plants

  • Plant-tone is an all-purpose plant food, perfect for a wide variety of trees, shrubs, and even vegetables and flowers.
  • Holly-tone is specifically formulated for acid-loving plants such as Azaleas, Rhododendrons, and Blueberries. This makes it the ideal choice for those particular species that thrive in more acidic soil.

 

Enhances Frost Resistance As temperatures drop below 40 degrees, plants undergo hormonal changes that direct nutrients to twigs, buds, and roots, making them more frost-resistant. Applying Plant-tone or Holly-tone before this temperature threshold can significantly improve your plants’ ability to withstand the cold.

 

Do All Plants Need Fall Fertilization?

Not all shrubs, bushes, and trees require fall fertilization. However, if your plants show signs of stress, such as undersized or pale green leaves, dead branch tips, dieback, or insect damage, they could benefit from an application. Well-fed plants are generally healthier and more resistant to pests and diseases.

 

Special Considerations for New and Transplanted Plants

Newly planted items need time to establish their root systems. Therefore, they don’t typically require fertilization right away. Instead, consider using Bio-Tone Starter Fertilizer to support root development before transitioning to regular fertilizers.

 

How to Apply Plant-tone and Holly-tone

For Shrubs:

  • Apply 1 cup per foot of drip line diameter, doubling the quantity if the diameter is larger than three feet.
  • Water thoroughly after application. If your plants are mulched, either temporarily remove the mulch before applying or double the application rate.

For Trees:

  • Use 1 lb. per inch of trunk diameter, tripling the amount for trunks with a diameter of 3 inches or more.
  • Dig 3-inch wide holes around the drip line, 12-18 inches deep, and 2-3 feet apart. Divide the fertilizer evenly among the holes, backfill with soil, and water thoroughly.

For New Garden Beds:

  • Mix 10 lbs. of fertilizer per 100 square feet into the top 4-5 inches of soil before planting. For established beds, use 5 lbs. per 100 square feet.

 

Final Tips

  • Avoid fertilizing frozen soils, as this can damage the plants rather than nourish them.
  • Remember to follow up with another application in the spring to keep the nutrients flowing as the growing season begins.

By incorporating Plant-tone and Holly-tone into your fall garden care routine, you can ensure that your plants remain healthy and robust, ready to burst into life when spring arrives. Whether you’re caring for acid-loving plants or a variety of trees and shrubs, these fertilizers offer a simple and effective way to give your garden the care it deserves.

 

Child exploring flowers with a magnifying glass outdoors.
August 14, 2024 In Feature, featured, info-library

Garden Scavenger Hunt: A Fun and Educational Activity for Kids

Ready to get started? Download our Garden Scavenger Hunt printable activity and watch as your child discovers the joys of the garden. Whether you’re looking for a weekend project or a way to make the most of a sunny afternoon, this activity is sure to be a hit with the whole family.

 

 

Engaging children in outdoor activities is a fantastic way to nurture their curiosity and foster a love for nature. Our latest printable activity, in partnership with KidsGardening, is a Garden Scavenger Hunt—a simple yet exciting way to get young ones exploring and observing the natural world around them.

Why a Garden Scavenger Hunt?

Gardens are full of wonders waiting to be discovered, from the tiniest insects to the most colorful flowers. However, young gardeners might sometimes need a little guidance to focus their attention and make the most of their time outside. A scavenger hunt offers the perfect balance of structure and freedom, allowing kids to explore while honing their observation skills.

How to Get Started

Materials Needed:

  • Scavenger hunt list (download our printable version or create your own)
  • Clipboard
  • Pencil or crayon

 

Instructions:

  1. Prepare Your List: Start by creating a list of items commonly found in gardens or nature. For younger children, consider using pictures instead of words. You can keep it simple with items like “bird” or “flower,” or challenge older kids with more specific items like “ladybug” or “oak leaf.”
  2. Gather Your Materials: Attach your scavenger hunt list to a clipboard and grab a pencil or crayon. This will make it easy for your little explorers to mark off items as they find them.
  3. Explore and Discover: Head out to your garden, a nearby park, or any green space. Encourage children to use their senses to find each item on the list. They can hunt with their eyes, ears, and even their sense of touch or smell.

 

Creative Variations to Try

  • Nature Bracelet: In a safe, private space, kids can collect small, non-living items and stick them to a bracelet made of masking tape (sticky side out). This turns the hunt into a craft activity, resulting in a unique keepsake.
  • Sensory Hunts: Instead of focusing solely on visual items, create a hunt based on sounds, textures, or smells. For example, children could listen for a bird’s song or feel the different textures of leaves and rocks.
  • Timed Challenge: Add an element of competition by timing how long it takes to complete the scavenger hunt. Kids can try to beat their previous times or compete for fun prizes.