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.

4. Compost piles should be turned with the collected leaves from your lawn. Leaves left on the grass over Winter give way to diseases such as mould.

5. Perennials that are mature need to be split from time to time so they don’t crowd themselves. A cool Fall day is perfect for splitting.

6. Empty rain barrels and birdbaths.

7. Winterize your irrigation system to prevent water freezing damage.

BOOK NOW as we start next week on September 15!

Finally, we have our Christmas trees ordered but there will be a short supply for some varieties. We will keep you up-to-date on the website and our Facebook page.