A LATE FIRST FROST
Happy November everyone! Temperatures here in Pittsburgh just dipped below freezing in the last week, which means my annuals lasted beautifully throughout all of October. The trees are starting to turn and I was able to snag a couple of pictures before the first frost turned the garden into its almost-winter state.
Still lots of space for more perennials!
This dogwood is in the most-viewed garden bed from my house (it sits right off the kitchen) and the fall color has been glorious. The gaura has even taken a red tint as well, which has been nice to enjoy before I cut it back.
The Pinky Winky Hydrangea living up to its name and the last zinnia blooms
The hardy mums have also been such a bright spot in the yard as everything starts to fade out for the winter. I ordered these online from Select Seeds
Our yard has also been a host to many an animal over the last week or two. I’m not sure what the draw is, but deer and turkey have just been hanging out. It’s a lot of fun to watch (for both us humans and our cats).
What’s been going on in the garden:
I’ve just been enjoying the fall color and taking note of the items that will need to be replaced or fixed for next year. The biggest question mark I have is about my lilac next to the dogwood. It’s been wilting since late summer and I haven’t diagnosed the cause yet. We’ll see how it wakes up in the spring and can continue the investigation then.
What’s up next:
I’ve started planting my 250+ bulbs but didn’t finish yet, so the next few weeks of November will be the time to get those in the ground.
Annuals finally need to be removed and perennials can be cut back. There are some nice, 60 degree days on the forecast so I’ll get the garden tidied up. While I’m out there I’ll pull out any weeds I find so they don’t stick around through the winter.
Put the patio furniture away (or cover it) and turn off the outdoor hose faucet
Take care of the leaves - either mulch them with the lawnmower or bag them up