September in the Garden

September should be called Bulb month for any gardeners out there. It is the right time to attend to:

• Bulbs for next spring
• Bulbs for late Autumn and Christmas
• Bulbs that have just flowered

September is the perfect time for planting spring bulbs: narcissi, alliums, crocuses, snow drops, and hyacinths. Leave daffodils till next month and tulips till November.  Ensure you have firm bulbs and plant within a week of buying. Plant where there is good drainage and add some bonemeal for a slow-release fertiliser. When choosing where to plant remember daffodils and narcissi have a lot of foliage that remains long after the flowers.  Bury bulbs at twice the depth of their size, tip upwards and ensure there are no air pockets around them. You can always plant in pots, tubs, baskets, window boxes or even go mad and mix the lot and wait for the surprise.

Plant new perennials while the soil is moist and warm, plant hardy perennials so their roots have a chance to become established before winter. Choose what is appropriate for your soil type. Lift and bring tender perennials inside before frosts cause any damage. Once perennials have finished flowering, cut them back and divide large clumps by lifting carefully and splitting. Replant with plenty of organic compost and water generously.  

Late Autumn and Christmas bulbs should now be planted in moist compost in pots. Keep them cool and moist outdoors initially. Make sure to plant the right way up in small clumps. When they have started to propagate, about end of October bring them into the heat so you will have flowers for Christmas.

Continue to deadhead dahlias, chrysanthemums, asters and any other spent flowers to encourage new flowers and keep the garden looking colourful. Don’t forget to deadhead plants in pots and hanging baskets as well. Check on the watering.

Beware of equinox gales so make sure all outdoor plants are well staked to prevent damage.

Monkeypuzzle.ie will be delighted to help with any of the above or any other garden or landscaping matters.  Please call Daragh at 012897751   

Good Luck