It's never too late to add to your landscape. The question is, "What should I plant this year?"

We can't fight it any longer.  The air is getting colder, the winds stronger.  Hopefully, all of our gardens are put to bed (pun intended) and ready for the winter.  Just as Christmas lights are easier to put up before it is freezing, your garden beds are easier to prepare while the weather holds out.  However, it isn't too late to make another addition to your overall landscape before winter sets in for good.

I usually try to plant at least one new shrub or tree in the fall.  It is easy to be persuaded to do so in the spring, while everything is green and growing.  However, keeping up on proper watering during the spring and fall is quite the task.  I know what you are thinking!  I work in a greenhouse.  Watering should be no big deal.  But why fight nature when planting in the fall is so much easier on the newly installed plant.  The winter months and into the spring are considered our wet period here in Ohio.  Planting in the fall gives your tree or shrub the best chance at a long, healthy life.  The sun and heat during the summer months really puts a lot of stress on roots that are trying to find their groove.

Fun fact.  You can plant a tree as long as the ground isn't frozen.  That being said, there are years that you can plant into December. What is even better, your local garden center probably has a few trees or shrubs on sale right now, hint, Mile Tree Lawn and Garden!  And I love nothing more than having something to look forward to! 

This year, I planted a Limelight hydrangea.  To say that I'm beyond excited is an understatement.  I have helped sell dozen of them over the years and, for some reason, have not planted one myself.  There is just something about a hydrangea bloom that stands out above the rest.  The fact that the limelight is happy in full sun and is so resilient is self advertisement in itself.  But it is the sheer blooming power is what gets me.  I cannot wait to enjoy the fresh blooms as well as the dry ones.  The want to be crafter in me is already planning all the things I can do with those delicate clusters of flowers. 

There are so many different kinds of hydrangeas readily available these days.  You can find a variety to suite whatever need your landscape requires!  Check out www.miletreegreenhouse.com to see all the varieties we carry.  And stay tuned for the adventures of my hydrangea!