Be mindful of changing irrigation needs as days get shorter and temperatures begin to drop. Adjust automatic timers accordingly. (Photo: Jeannette Warnert)

“A garden is a thing of beauty and a job forever” ~ Richard Briers

Tasks

• Despite a few last very hot summer days, fall is rapidly approaching with shorter days and cooler nights. Adjust irrigation timers, as your garden requires less water.
• The cooler weather is perfect for working in the garden. Start fall cleanup.
• Deeply water fruit and nut trees. Ideally, mature fruit trees should be irrigated to a depth of 3 feet.

Pruning

• Prune and shape photinia now to avoid removing the attractive new, red foliage. Photinia can be pruned aggressively if the plant has grown too large.
• Finish dividing iris. Replant while conditions remain warm and dry, and share extra rhizomes with friends and neighbors.

Planting

• Bulbs that do not need chilling may be planted beginning this month.
• Plant winter and spring annuals and cool-weather vegetables from cell packs.
• Annuals: snapdragon (Antirrhinum), English daisy (Bellis perennis).
• Perennials: Alstroemeria, Bellflower (campanula), chrysanthemum morifolium, Geum.
• Fruits and vegetables: beets, carrots - plant from seed.
• Trees, shrubs, vines: abelia, acacia, horse chestnut (Aesculus), strawberry tree (Arbutus unedo).

Enjoy now

• Annuals and perennials: alstroemeria, yarrow (Achillea), aster, begonia.
• Bulbs, corms, tubers: canna.
• Trees, shrubs, vines: barberry (Berberis), bougainvillea, butterfly bush (Buddleia davidii).
• Fruits and vegetables: almonds, beans, corn.
• Fall color: maple (Acer), cotoneaster.

Things to ponder

• A thick layer of mulch acts as insulation. If applied while the soil is still warm (55°- 65°) it can help extend the fall growing season.
• In the absence of soaking rains, continue to deep water trees and large shrubs at least once a week.