Planting

Plant balled and burlapped, balled and potted, and container-grown ornamental plants.

Transplanting

Dig plants that were root pruned in the spring. Deciduous plants may be moved bare root, but narrowleaf evergreens should be moved balled and burlapped or balled and potted. Plants that are to be transplanted in the spring should be root pruned now.

Fertilizing

One of the first priorities after selecting a fall planting site and before planting is to test the soil. Soils in established landscapes should be tested every three years and corrective action taken as needed.

Watering

Irrigate newly planted or established ornamentals any time there is less than 1 inch of weekly rainfall and plants are actively growing. Apply water at the rate or 1 quart per square foot of planting area on poorly drained soils. On well-drained soils, use a half-gallon of water per square foot. Be sure to maintain adequate moisture levels this month to ensure good root growth prior to winter dormancy.

Plant protection

For newly planted ornamentals, you may apply a pre-emergence herbicide before spreading a 2- to 3-inch layer of mulch over the soil in the bed or around trees.

Pest control

Warning! Not all formulations of all recommended pesticides are labeled for all suggested uses. Buy formulations that are labeled for the specific pest problem. Follow all pesticide label directions and precautions.

When a particular pest becomes active depends on the weather conditions in your area. The pest management guide gives general guidelines for a broad geographic area. Depending on your location, a particular pest may appear early or late within the month(s) in which the pest is listed.