Rain, Fall Planting, and Ceanothus 'Concha'

by Kelly Marshall, Markham Board Member, Garden Designer

   It seems a bit early in the season for rain, and, blech...the reminder that Winter is approaching, but what a perfect time for planting! Monday's rain softened up our clay soil after a long summer baking, and we are finally seeing some milder temperatures too. Yet, our soil is still warm, which encourages root growth and gives new plants a sort of 'boost' into next year. If you can get new plants into the ground now, they will be well established by Spring, making them better equipped to combat next summer's inevitable heat and drought. On the flipside, plants that go in next Spring will be slow to get started due to cooler temperatures, which of course equals cooler soil. (I'm not that patient, so when a plant sits in the ground and stares at me, looking exactly the same, week after week, and month after month...well, let's just say I start considering the cost of real estate in my garden. It's just better to plant it now, and let it exceed my expectations by Spring!)

   In my opinion, fall is also the best time to plant both Ceanothus and Manzanita, two of our most popular natives. I consider those a bit more finicky to get established, so timing is important.
 

Ceanothus 'Concha' 

   One of the Ceanothus I use often in my designs is Ceanothos 'Concha'. I think it's one of our nicest California Lilacs, with deep blue flower clusters that open from red-tinged buds in spring. It's mid-sized, growing quickly to a dense, upright shrub at least 6' tall and maybe a bit wider. Ceanothus 'Concha' tolerates some summer water, and I've found that in our hot inland climate, most Ceanothus need some additional irrigation in the summer to thrive, as long as they have good drainage. 'Concha' is also listed as being fairly deer resistant, though I've said it before: "Deer don't usually read lists." Like many Ceanothus, 'Concha' prefers full sun, and does fine in our clay soils. And though it's not listed as having a fragrance, there is one planted in my neighborhood that has a slight grape smell when in bloom, and I can't help but lean in and take a whiff when I walk by. (I'm sure the neighbors think I'm crazy, but that's a story for another day).

   So, to summarize: No excuses! After this rainy, yucky last few days, we are forecasted for some lovely sunshine and mild temperatures, perfect for enjoying the last sweet days of an Indian Summer, and for adding new plants to your garden.

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