November extinguished the landscape ablaze, leaving only a few smoldering embers amongst the ashes.  The trees stood unadorned and humbled as their Autumnal attire laid at their feet.  The great sentinels now stood vulnerable and exposed.

With Winter nipping at our heels, and the threat of consistent hard frosts, our trees and shrubs do require a little care to help protect them from the brutalities of the impending season.

First, trees and shrubs, before they go dormant, should be watered if Fall rains have been inadequate.  This applies to all trees and shrubs; however, newly planted trees and evergreens are more susceptible to desiccation and dehydration.  Moist soil also helps protect the roots from cold injury.

Trees and shrubs should also be mulched or re-mulched.  As you already know, mulch helps retain moisture and insulates the soil.

Lastly, it is recommended that you do not prune, other than removing dead, damaged or crossing branches.  Pruning now may still encourage new growth, which will not have a chance to harden off before winter; thereby, injuring the plant.

As we prepare our yards and gardens for Winter, it’s important we offer a little love, time and care to our trees and shrubs.  As always, feel free to reach out to Sweeney’s with any of your Winter preparation needs. We proudly serve the communities of Villa Park, Elmhurst, Oakbrook, Oakbrook Terrace, Glen Ellyn, Lombard, Wood Dale, Itasca, and more!

Sweeney’s:  A Plant Based Company

Plant of the Week

Spigelia marilandica ‘Little Redhead’

Clump forming perennial produces red, trumpet shaped flowers with yellow centers atop stiff stems in early Summer.  Prefers full sun to partial sun and moist, well-drained soil.  Grows 24-36″ tall and 18-24″ wide.  Attracts hummingbirds.

“November at its best – with a sort of delightful menace in the air.”

-Anne Bosworth Greene

Best wishes,

Kim Sweeney