Turn off irrigation system for the Winter!!!
We are still in a drought emergency and our goal is to reduce water usage by 25% or more per month
Winter is when bare-root fruit trees and berries are available at nurseries. Order or visit early as popular varieties sell quickly
Winter is an excellent time to assess the “bare bones” of your yard, when many trees and plants are leafless and few flowers are blooming. The right evergreen groundcover, shrub or vine can soften the stark contrasts between trees, shrubs and hardscape features like fences and sidewalks
Remember to water all the plants (especially any that are frost-tender) you have stored under the eaves and patio covers
Organize the tools necessary to prune roses and keep them sharp and clean. The product, Physan sterilizes tools without rusting them
Maintain a 2 in. layer of mulch around plants, but keep 4-6 inches away from plant stems or trunks. During drought 3” is recommended
Remove and dispose of fallen fruit and or fruit still hanging on trees - this will help control overwintering disease and pests
Remove fallen leaves from lawn areas to avoid rotting the grass underneath
It is best to pick up fallen leaves under rose plants as they often house fungus spores that can re-enter plants in Spring
Begin planning next year's landscape to be ready to implement in Spring. Designing a landscape can take several to many weeks depending upon its complexity
Inspect susceptible plants (especially winter vegetables) for aphid activity and other insect pests. Treat if population is large enough.
Use high pressure sprayer of water for small populations
Plant winter annuals
Complete late season cleaning of hardy perennials
Put away the lawn mower for the year. Drain fuel or add a stabilizer. Clean and dry unit to prevent rust. Sharpen blade so that it is ready to go in Spring. Please remember to disconnect the spark plug wire before working around any engine
Consider beginning winter pruning chores only after all leaves have fallen including roses and fruit trees
Consider stretching exercises to loosen up before beginning garden chores in cold weather
Need an idea for an unusual Holiday gift – a complete garden clean up