November signals the end of autumn, yet remains busy for gardeners with plenty of actions required before winter settles in. While pruning is typically on the to-do list, experts caution against cutting back evergreens this month. Morris Hankinson, the managing director of Hopes Grove Nurseries, advises gardeners to "hold off on pruning evergreens until March or April" once the frost has passed. Pruning these plants too early can leave them exposed to harsh winter conditions, potentially causing damage to their foliage, which is necessary for their protection. He explains, "Evergreens need their foliage for protection and are best left undisturbed through winter. Trimming their foliage in late autumn can leave them vulnerable to winter damage."
While these evergreen plants require some extra attention, November serves as the perfect opportunity for other tasks around the garden. It’s time to prepare beds for winter and sow seeds for early spring blooms as cooler temperatures can be ideal for such activities. Enthusiastic gardeners can clear away fallen leaves and compost them, which helps improve soil quality as well. Planting spring-flowering bulbs like daffodils, crocus, and hyacinth during this period ensures vibrant colors come March and April.
Simultaneously, moisture control becomes increasingly important as indoor humidity rises with cooler weather. Homeowners are turning to houseplants to help manage indoor moisture levels and mitigate the risk of mold, making indoor gardening just as engaging as outdoor activities. The experts at Beard and Daisies suggest incorporating moisture-absorbing plants to create natural humidity buffers within homes. Plants such as Peace Lilies and the Bird of Paradise excel at moist absorption through transpiration and are particularly effective when placed strategically around the house.
The process of transpiration allows these plants to draw moisture from their environment, which keeps indoor air quality balanced and prevents excess humidity. Beard and Daisies highlights these five houseplants:
- Peace Lily: Recognized for its beautiful white blooms, the Peace Lily thrives in humid spaces, ideally suited for areas with indirect sunlight.
- Bird of Paradise: This plant features lush foliage and works effectively at moisture absorption—also adding tropical flair to living rooms or bathrooms.
- Palms: Varieties like Areca and Bamboo palms not only beautify spaces but also help maintain moisture levels.
- Orchids: Known for their exquisite beauty, these plants also provide moisture control and flourish in bathrooms and kitchens where humidity is prevalent.
- Spider Plant: This low-maintenance houseplant works effectively to balance humidity and purifies the air too, making it ideal for various indoor settings.
For those seeking alternative ways to protect their gardens, homeowners can plant certain species known to deter the notorious squirrels, which often dig up bulbs and flower pots. According to pest control experts, flowers such as alliums, daffodils, and hyacinths can act as natural barriers against squirrels due to their strong scents. Combat Pest Control advises gardeners to incorporate these varieties to strategically ward off these pesky critters. Squirrels have sensitive noses, meaning they're often repelled by strong aromas, so planting strategically can protect your fall and spring blooms.
Another method to deter squirrels is concocting homemade pepper spray. Mix cayenne pepper with water and dish soap, put it in a spray bottle, and sprinkle the solution around affected areas. This natural method's spicy scent acts as another deterrent for unwanted visitors. Homeowners can also soak cotton balls with scents like vinegar or peppermint oil, which can be used to plug entry points or placed where squirrels are frequently seen. Though effective, these need periodic replacements due to rain diminishing their potency.
Later this month, gardeners are reminded not to overlook the task of dusting houseplants—a simple chore, yet one with significant impacts. Dust buildup can obstruct light access, dampen plants' health, and even encourage pests to take hold.
Even though November pushes the gardening envelope toward dormancy, there's still abundance to explore. For example, experimenting with unique gardening hacks is on many enthusiasts’ agendas. This could involve the unexpected use of ripped-up teabags or even coffee grounds to nourish the soil or assist with plant vitality.
Care for your roses can also boost their resilience and beauty; sprinkle some natural compost around their base, enhancing their strength over the winter months. Such care ensures they won't just survive, but thrive, leading to bountiful blooms come spring.
Whether battling the seasons through strategic planting, controlling humidity indoors, or adopting persistence with household chores, gardeners can cultivate healthy spaces both inside and outside. These efforts keep the spirit of gardening alive, irrespective of snowflakes and frost warnings knocking at the door!
