Fall is for Planting,

by Jenny Rash 

Fall is right around the corner and it is THE season for planting! Why?? Well, there is the fact that it's a lot easier on us to garden in cooler weather, but there are more scientific reasons than our own personal comfort. Consider the following:

• Plant roots continue to grow and develop throughout the fall and winter, helping a plant to become better 'established' (or better prepared) for our hot, humid, and dry summers.
• Plant roots have 7 to 9 months of development before the summer hits which increases the plant's chances of survival.
• The typically higher rainfall amounts and cooler temperatures of fall are a perfect environment for plant growth and health.
• With cooler temperatures, the pest and disease problems are diminished and the plant is happier!
• A lot of people think that just trees and shrubs benefit from fall plantings, but fall is also a GREAT time to plant perennials for exactly the same reasons.


Now, what to plant? I always recommend visiting nurseries once the leaves start to change so that you can pick the perfect fall color for your garden. Crape Myrtles, Japanese Maples, and Crab Apples all have gorgeous fall color, but even between two Crape Myrtles there are many color variations. You can ensure the perfect orange, red, or yellow by seeing it in person. Fall is also a great time to see the beautiful Beauty Berries, Winter Berries, and Service Berries. Berries not only provide fall and winter interest in our landscapes, but also provide food for the birds.

Ready to start planning your fall planting? Don't forget our 'We Plan, You Plant' complimentary service...Make an appointment with our Garden Center staff to discuss your garden by calling us at 320.7798. Bring pictures and measurements of the area and spend an hour of undivided attention looking at the right plants for your space. Our expert will recommend plants and layout for your landscape as well as honor 10% off your purchases for 1 month.

"The Bottom Line" in Landscaping,

by Bob Sneed 

One of the most popular new processes for creating hardscape projects . . . i.e. patios, walkways, and even driveways . . . involves the use of sand set pavers.  With the variety of colors, textures, and sizes available, pavers offer huge design possibilities.  Other paving options, such as stamped concrete, can result in costly and mismatched repairs in the event of a crack.  Pavers, on the other hand, can be removed, the base fixed, and then relaid for nominal expense.  Some critics of pavers complain about weed infiltration, moss, and the overall expense of a paver project installation.  The truth is that weeds can be minimized with the use of polymer sand, and moss actually adds a "soft" touch.  Bottomline . . . pavers offer the best solution with the most options for any hardscape project. 

Lawn Care Tips for August,

by Mark Alfred 
 

Back to School!

Sneed's Nursery & Garden Center recognizes that environmental stewardship is critical. Through our 'Adopt A Garden' project and local donations we support our children in their gardening endeavors. Please visit www.sneedsnursery.com for information about how we may be able to partner with your child's school to raise money and awareness of the world around us.