November Landscaping

November Landscaping in St. Louis County: Your Essential Guide

Hello, St. Louis County garden enthusiasts! As the vibrant hues of fall paint our landscapes, November brings a unique set of tasks for our gardens. Whether you’re a seasoned green thumb or just starting out, our guide will help you navigate this month’s landscaping journey.

1. Ornamental Annuals and Perennials: November is the perfect time to give your garden a fresh burst of color come spring. If you haven’t already:

  • Plant Spring Bulbs: Tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths are eager to find their spot in your garden. They’ll reward you with a vibrant display when winter fades.
  • Garden Clean-Up: Those fallen leaves might look picturesque, but they can harbor pests and diseases. A good clean-up now can save you a lot of trouble later.

2. Lawn Care: Your lawn might be slowing down, but it still needs some TLC:

  • Leaf Management: A blanket of leaves might seem harmless, but it can cause bare spots on your lawn. Regular raking or leaf blowing keeps your grass breathing easy.
  • Fertilize for the Future: A slow-release fertilizer now ensures your lawn wakes up green and lush in spring.

3. Trees and Shrubs: These stalwarts of your landscape need attention too:

  • Planting Time: If you’ve been thinking about adding a new tree or shrub, now’s a great time. They’ll have all winter to settle in before the growing season.
  • Fall Fertilization: Once trees show their fall colors, give them a boost with some fertilizer. They’ll thank you with vigorous growth next year.
  • Hydration is Key: Especially for evergreens, make sure they’re well-watered before the ground freezes.

4. Fruits and Veggies: For those with a kitchen garden:

  • Tilling Time: Turning over your soil now can expose insect pests to the cold, reducing their numbers next spring.
  • Fruit Clean-Up: Leftover fruits can attract pests. Make sure to clear them away.
  • Pecan Harvest: If you’re lucky enough to have a pecan tree, keep an eye out for falling nuts. Fresh pecans are a treat!

5. A Few More Tips:

  • Soil Testing: If you’ve noticed some plants struggling or just want to optimize growth, consider a soil test. It’ll give you insights into pH levels and nutrient deficiencies.
  • Birds Need Love Too: As food becomes scarce, setting up bird feeders can attract a delightful array of winged visitors.
  • Houseplant Care: As we move our green friends indoors, remember to reduce watering. Check the soil moisture before giving them a drink.

In conclusion, November might signal the onset of winter, but there’s still plenty to do in the garden. With these tips, your St. Louis County landscape will be well-prepared for the colder months and ready to burst into life come spring.

References:

  • Gateway Gardener. “Things to Do This Month.” Link
  • Missouri Botanical Garden. “November Gardening Tips.” Link