Are your plants ready for the Transition?

It’s TRANSITION TIME…  Summer into Fall!

Late August in Wisconsin... time to harvest and preserve those home-grown tomatoes… time for children to think about reuniting with school friends… time to transition those summer container gardens into the new fall season!

Some of the container gardens shown here could have a quick “wardrobe change” and would adapt to the new season nicely.  Annuals like deep-hued coleus and other foliage plants can be retained in the container; simply change out any flowers or herbs that seem tired or past their prime.    

(Scoop them out gently and add them to your home compost pile.)  

The next step is to add some autumn bling to your container; a clump of ornamental grasses works well.  Add a small mum or two in place of the annuals you removed.  If you have a plant stake or ornament with an autumn theme, add it to the mix.   When gourds are available, you can tuck in a few amidst your plants.  Tie up a bow made of burlap if you like, and place it near front of your container.  

Make it pretty—make it yours!  A little imagination and a bit of bling will keep your container plantings enjoyable for another month or two.  

M. Lynn Schmid,   Certified Master Gardener
A.A.S. Landscape/Horticulture/Arboriculture