Monday’s whisper of warmth was summarily silenced by an unseasonal chill that threatened to mute the season’s dulcet, sweet tone and drag us, kicking and screaming, to Winter’s lair.  Snow, they say, is possible, and damp, bone-chilling temps are guaranteed.  Oh, sweet, gentle, November where have you gone?

  As I lament over the weather, as I do on almost a daily basis, I am once again reminded that I am mostly a wimp.  A blessed and grateful wimp, and yesterday I had the chance to be a hero.  We all had the chance to be a hero to the American men and women who serve and served our country so valiantly, selflessly, and humbly – our veterans.  We offer our heartfelt gratitude to all the brave veterans and their families who have allowed us our freedoms on this day and every day.

Now, back to the weather.  Seriously, the January-like temps have sent everyone into a tail spin, including the landscape, and if snow should truly fall and stick?  We’ve got yet another issue on our hands, but most likely, the wintry weather probably won’t hang around long, and before we know it, November will return with its temperate nature.  So, the big question is, is it still possible to plant trees and shrubs?  Why, yes!  Sort of.

Now, it may not be the most ideal time of year to plant trees and shrubs – that ship sailed a few weeks ago; however, it’s still a viable time as long as the ground is workable and not completely and totally frozen.  You see, pot bound trees and shrubs will do much better and be much happier in the ground.  Now, granted, they may not look terribly healthy or happy for that matter, but they’ll perk up come Spring if you abide by the following tips for late season planting:

• Don’t fertilize.  This is the wrong time to stimulate growth.
• Continue to water until the ground freezes.
• Apply mulch to keep the plants insulated and help conserve moisture.
• Don’t prune.  Don’t even think about it.

If you’re still not convinced or are simply tentative about planting this late, feel free to reach out to Sweeney’s.  We’d be happy to plant for you or offer our advice.

  “People sleep peaceably in their beds at night only because rough men stand ready to do violence on their behalf.”

-George Orwell

Best wishes,

Kim Sweeney