October is here. Before long, some of us will be inundated with snow. All of us, however, will be inundated with colder temperatures, a harsher climate. We have to make sure that our plants and trees are prepared for the challenge, which is why October is a great (and necessary) time to water our green friends. We must give them enough energy to survive those harsh winter months.
Think of it this way: if you’re about to run a marathon, you have drunk enough water and ingested a suitable amount of nutrients to complete the trek. If you didn’t, chances are you don’t even finish. Trees, plants and shrubs function the same way in the wintertime. You see, winter is a frigid marathon. Our green friends must have enough energy if you want them to finish it.
In the article, “October a good time to water, plant trees, scrubs,” Kelly Feehan of the Columbustelegram.com writes, “In the landscape, October is the month to water, control weeds, and plant bulbs, trees and shrubs. It is also the month to wait until after a freeze to cut back perennial plants and wait for the soil to freeze before covering tender plants with winter mulch.”
That may seem like a lot to do, especially if your front- or backyard is a lush paradise, but it’s worth it. As long as the soil is dry, that is. If it is, you should water, enough water so that it moistens the soil at least 12 inches deep. If you’re feeling ambitious, you can also plant trees in October. Strike while the iron’s hot…and not freezing!
If you have any questions or concerns about watering or planting trees in October, give Cold Stream Farm a call! We have plenty of bare root trees for sale!
*Video courtesy of caseytrees
