(Editor’s note: During fall gardening season we’ll be providing tips from the experts. This week’s tips come from Richard Quinn of Fifth Season in Carrboro.)
- Tip 1: Find a way to collect rainwater. “Even though it’s not raining right now, it will eventually.†Rain barrels are a good way to collect and use rainwater to preserve water, and because rainwater is free of metals found in tapwater, it is healthier for plants.
- Tip 2: Set up a drip irrigation system. “It’s not that expensive, it can be done with basic tubing.†By stretching the watering over a longer period of time and in smaller quantities, plants absorb more water and less is wasted. Â
- Tip 3: Let soil drain, but not too fast. Putting organic material like fertilizer, manure or compost around the roots of a plant will hold in water while still allowing some to drain.
- Tip 4: Plant perennials in the Fall. “Planting perennials in the Fall establishes the roots for the Spring.†And with stronger roots, plants will grow stronger and fuller than if they were planted later.
Recommended plants
- The Black-Eyed Susan is a drought-resistant flower that will grow well.
- The Fall Aster will bloom in the Fall and doesn’t need too much water, either.
- Next week: Meg Sorrell of Niche Gardens and Mike Dickinson of Dickinson’s Garden Center.
I also find that it’s a great time to start on a new batch of compost for next summer. The mis of clippings from the last mowing of the grass with the falling leaves makes a very rich compost.