Janis Lane brings us her gardening tips for Fall

The green thumb of Janis Lane brings us her gardening tips.

PLANTING FOR FALL

Some plants will perform admirably in the summer but must be stored for winter. Dahlias are a great example. Although fairly expensive, they are certainly worth investing for their gorgeous blossoms, but the fat tubers must be dug and brought inside (cellar) for the winter. There are several ways to care for them, but important is to keep them relatively dry in storage. Perhaps wrapped in newspaper and tucked safety inside a paper bag and stored on an upper shelf away from the damp floor.


After digging, the large tuber may be separated for an abundance of new plants in the next year. Each piece should contain at least three ‘eyes.” Remove as much soil as possible before storing.

               


Plant out in the spring when all danger of frost has left. Dahlias are a large plant and, although bred for the cut flower market with strong stems, should be staked for protection from a destructive wind. Choices are endless from small, short border varieties to large dinner plate blossoms. Colors are vivid with many bi-colored types. The Red Ball has proven to be a prolific producer of long stemmed blooms perfect for the vase or an arrangement. Full sun seems best although half day is probably adequate. Enjoy! Nothing says Fall like a large bouquet of dahlias for your indoor pleasure.

Fall outdoors is for Mums

Plant as an annual, or if you are one of those very lucky gardeners, cover with mulch and winter over. In the spring carefully cut back until the 4^th of July for a compact plant.

                 

                                    MUMS Mum varieties Zinnias, dahlias, mums.

The richness of fall color presented prominently in the Cozy Mystery, Murder in the Neighborhood, a novel which introduces the reader to Detective Kevin Fowler and the intriguing murders which infected this small town Americana. The series follows the detective, colleagues, friends, and lovers through the next three novels.

                   

About Emma:

Emma Janis Lane writes in two genres, cozy mystery and historical Regency. She lives in Western NY where she enjoys snowy winters, delightful Springs, balmy Summers, and riotous colors in Fall. Look for information about writing and plants on her new website. Leave a comment or a gardening question and put a smile on Emma's face.

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