This is the time of the year when Alberta can start the day with a frost then by afternoon we are enjoying twenty-something temperatures! We are all busy though gathering the rewards of our summer labours; fruits and vegetables are being preserved for winter meals, herbs are dried, late-blooming flowers enjoyed. There are also things we can do to get our garden and landscaping ready for the winter ahead.
Tips to get ready for winter
1. Trees and shrubs need a good watering in the last half of September or early October before freeze up. This helps them survive the fluctuating temperatures we get in the Calgary area.
2. Grass will continue to grow and stay green if you water through the Fall. Autumn is when the roots are active so it isn’t too late to lay sod.
3. Evergreen trees such as Spruce and Pine will begin to show signs of yellow inner needles. This is a normal seasonal activity. By giving a good soaking of water it will ensure that new needles will grow in the Spring.
A brief look at the what, where, why and how of composting