Alabama Extension: Design flowerbeds now for bolder spring color

As this year’s growing season comes to a close, there are a few things home gardeners can do next spring to increase the color in their flower beds or landscape.

In the flowerbed

Brian Brown, a regional homestead agent for the Alabama Cooperative Extension System, said one of the most important things gardeners can do is remove dead plant material.

“Cleaning up plant material is especially important if you have had insect or disease problems during the growing season,” Brown said. “Many of the disease and insect problems can be completely avoided because dead plant material can provide a place for insects and diseases to overwinter. This could cause problems in next year’s garden.”

Brown said composters should avoid putting diseased material in their compost bin. The compost may not get hot enough to kill the disease, potentially contaminating the compost pile.

“To properly dispose of diseased plants, throw them in the trash or burn them where it is legal and safe to do so,” Brown said. “You can also plow under plants that are not diseased.”

Hostas. (contributed)

Daylilies. (contributed)

Daffodils. (contributed)

In the landscape

Brown said the landscape may also need attention in the fall.

“Take some time to pay special attention to your landscape,” Brown said. “Fall is a great time to plant spring-flowering bulbs as well as perennials and biennials. If your perennials are overcrowded, now is the time to divide them.”

If weeds invaded your landscape last winter, apply a pre-emergence herbicide to the lawn. Brown said this will significantly reduce the number of weeds, particularly one of the most notorious winter weeds: lawn coneweed, most commonly known as sticker. If you miss the opportunity to treat lawn coneweed in the fall, you can apply a broadleaf herbicide in December or January without harming the lawn.

Tool maintenance

Brown also recommends annual maintenance of garden tools.

“Cleaning, sharpening and lubricating your garden tools will help prevent rust from forming in the winter and keep them in good working condition,” Brown said.

More information

Learn more about year-round garden and landscape care at www.aces.edu. Gardeners who need assistance can also call their local extension office and ask for the real estate agent serving their area.

This story originally appeared on the Alabama Cooperative Extension System website.