October is "Fall is for Planting" Month
by Kate Pyle, PR & Marketing Intern, Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden
Cornus angustata ‘Elsbry’ Empress of China™ Dogwood
Did you know that fall is a great time to plant bulbs, trees, shrubs, and perennials? I’ll be honest with you, I did not. The most experience I have with gardening is the little avocado tree (or Persea americana) I planted from the pit of an avocado after I made guacamole. As the new PR & Marketing Intern at the Garden I am excited about the opportunities to learn more about my studies as well as plants.
The Garden staff is busy at work; donations from Southern Living Plants Collection are being planted throughout the property, as well as bulbs, native grasses, and shrubs. Planting in the fall is very beneficial, not only to the plant itself but to the environment. Roots act as natural water filters and, as they absorb rain water, they help decrease pollutants. Storm water can carry pollutants to streams, rivers, and even the Chesapeake Bay. The cooler temperatures in the fall, along with increased rainfall, make for great conditions for roots to develop, giving the plant a better chance at survival come the heat and humidity of summer months. For some fall planting tips, check out Southern Living’s Fall Planting Guide.
Carex oshimensis ‘Everillo’
The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) partnered with the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation, the Alliance for the Chesapeake Bay, the Central Virginia Nursery and Landscape Association, the Green Industry Council and the James River Association to support this important initiative and encourage Virginians to add plants to their home and community landscapes this month. Virginia Governor Terry McAuliffe endorsed this early this month when he declared October is “Fall is for planting” month.
Take a look at just a few of these beautiful Southern Living plants. You’ll find them throughout the Garden, along Lake Sydnor, in the new triangular bed above the Lotus Bridge, and in Flagler Garden. Please note that these images are not from Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden, but have been sourced from Southern Living Plants Collection because ours are not yet in bloom. Visit us come spring to see these beauties in action!
Azalea Solar Flare™ Sunbow®
Azalea Solar Glow™ Sunbow®