Northern California Coastal & Inland Valleys
The days are getting shorter and plants are using less water now. Reset irrigation clocks and reduce container watering.
Provide Water for Wildlife
Provide a source of fresh water for birds. Place a flat rock in the center of the container to allow smaller birds and butterflies to drink. Keep the water fresh and use any left over to water container plants.
Purchase Spring-Blooming Bulbs
Begin buying spring-blooming bulbs like daffodils, hyacinth, and tulip. Look for bulbs that are free of fungus spots and those that have their protective wrappers in tact. Place the bulbs in paper bags and store in the vegetable bin in your refrigerator until planting time in November.
Mulch Bearded Iris
Iris beds should be lightly mulched with a 1/2-inch layer of organic compost to provide nutrients for the resting rhizomes. Remove spent foliage. Dig and divide clumps that did not bloom this year.
Keep rose plants clean and free from dust to prevent damage by mites. Wash plants early in the morning to remove insect pests. Washing plants later in the day invites fungus disease. Rake up and remove fallen foliage from under the plants to discourage fungus spores from splashing back up onto the foliage. Remove faded flowers now to encourage one more bloom, then allow plants to form hips which will trigger the dormant period.