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Hort Shorts for October 2, 2020 -- Landscapes

A summary of timely activities and emerging disorders in landscapes.

Irrigate Evergreens

Irrigate this month to fill their needles with water. The tips of needles may dry (as shown above) due to winds and glaring sunlight over winter. Young and wind-exposed trees are most sensitive to injury.

Fall Needle Drop

An evergreen needle is not green forever. Older needles (located near the trunk) are supposed to drop. If buds and young needles (located near branch tips) are healthy, the tree is full of life.

Kill Invasive Brush and Vines

Fall is a great time to kill invasive brush and woody vines. Cut the brush down to the ground. Soak the fresh wound with triclopyr and/or glyphosate. The chemicals will move into the roots and kill (or at least stagger) the weed. Spray sprouts that emerge later, if needed.

Trim Your Lawn

A tall turf attracts voles (damage is shown) and becomes more susceptible to mold over winter. Cut your lawn at a normal height or slightly lower (1.5–2.0 inches) the last time you mow.

Mow and Shred Leaves

Shred leaves in your lawn with your mower. The lawn will not suffocate from the mulched leaves as long as you can see the grass blades after mowing. Thick layers of leaves must be raked, or the lawn will get smothered and rot.

Protect Young Trees

Place white tree guards (left photo) around young trees for at least two winters to prevent cracking (right photo) and protect against wildlife. Linden, mountainash, maple and fruit trees are very sensitive; protect for up to five winters.

Critterproof Daffodils

Deer and other critters will eat tulips and crocuses. Grow daffodils instead. Daffodils are toxic to wildlife. The scientific name of daffodils, Narcissus, comes from the Greek word “narcos” meaning to numb (just like narcotics). Critters will “Just Say No” to narcotics, including daffodils.

Plant Tulips Indoors

Set bulbs close; not touching; flat side against rim. Cover with soil so bulb tips are at surface. Water. Place in unheated garage (32–50°F) for 12–14 weeks. After bulbs sprout, set in 60°F spot with bright, indirect light. Move to a sunny spot when sprouts are 2 inches.

Written by Tom Kalb, Extension Horticulturist, North Dakota State University. Published in the NDSU Yard & Garden Report for October 2, 2020. Photos were made available under Creative Commons licenses specified by the photographers: Mike Schomaker, Colorado State Forest Service, Bugwood.org; Eli Sagor; Eli Sagor; BlueRidgeKitties; David L. Clement, University of Maryland, Bugwood.org; Brian Richardson; Tom Kalb, NDSU (2); Bernard Spragg. NZ; and Tom Kalb.

Recent Hort Shorts -- Landscapes: September 17, 2020.