Ian Robertson, Ltd.
Horticultural Tips
October Tips
q Begin planting container-grown and B&B trees and shrubs. Always plant at the same level plants were grown at the nursery, or slightly higher. Top-dress with 2" of compost.
q If you can wait until November to plant, when the plants are fully dormant, do so.
q Thoroughly water and mulch new plantings, keeping mulch away from the plant's trunk.
q Add new mulch to existing beds if needed.
q Inspect azaleas and Pyracantha for signs of lacebug infestation. If the leaves are silvery and the undersides show a brown residue - treat the plant as soon as possible. Eggs laid this year will overwinter and hatch next year to torment your plants. Try using horticultural soaps or oils, and be sure to thoroughly coat the underside of the leaves.
q Inspect evergreen shrubs for scale (particularly Euonymus, boxwood and Burford Holly). Spray with insecticide in early October or with dormant oil in late winter. Heavy infestations can kill plants.
q Continue to deadhead roses. Mulch plants well for the winter, being sure to keep mulch off of the crown and lower stems, where it can allow cankers & botrytis.
q Plant new perennials now.
q Cut back perennials as the tops die and remove all plant debris from beds as it can harbor pests and diseases.