The air is getting crisper, the leaves are putting on their final, fiery show (though maybe with a little less intensity than our East Coast cousins!), and the scent of pumpkin spice is everywhere. Here in California, November marks a beautiful transition in our landscapes. While the scorching summer heat is a distant memory, it’s not quite time to huddle indoors just yet. In fact, November is a prime time to give your garden some much-needed attention and set it up for a thriving spring.
At DK Landscaping, we believe a well-maintained landscape is a year-round source of joy. So, grab a warm beverage, pull on your gardening gloves, and let’s dive into our top tips for making the most of your California garden this November!
Embrace the Post-Summer Refresh:
Summer can be tough on our plants. Now is the perfect time to assess the damage and give them some TLC:
- Deep Clean & Clear Out: Just like you might do a fall cleaning indoors, your garden needs one too! Rake up fallen leaves (they make great compost!), remove dead or diseased plant material, and clear out any lingering weeds that thrived during the warmer months. This helps prevent pests and diseases from overwintering in your garden.
- Pruning Power: Many shrubs and trees benefit from late fall pruning. Removing dead, damaged, or crossing branches improves air circulation and encourages healthy growth in the spring. Not sure where to start? Our experienced team at DK Landscaping can provide expert pruning services to ensure your plants are shaped and cared for correctly.
- Soil Love: After a long growing season, your soil might be depleted. Now is an excellent time to amend your soil with compost or other organic matter. This will improve drainage, aeration, and provide essential nutrients for the months ahead.
Watering Wisdom for Cooler Days:
While the temperatures are dropping, your plants still need water, just not as frequently as in the summer.
- Adjust Your Irrigation: Reduce your watering frequency and duration. Overwatering in cooler weather can lead to root rot. Observe your plants and the soil moisture levels to determine the right schedule.
- Water Deeply and Less Often: When you do water, water deeply to encourage strong root growth.
- Consider Rainfall: Keep an eye on the forecast! If we get a good amount of rain, you can likely skip a watering cycle.
Planting for the Future:
Believe it or not, November is a fantastic time for certain types of planting in California:
- California Natives: Many California native plants thrive when planted in the fall. The cooler, wetter conditions allow their roots to establish before the heat of summer arrives. Consider adding some beautiful and drought-tolerant natives to your landscape.
- Cool-Season Vegetables: If you enjoy fresh produce, now is the time to plant cool-season vegetables like lettuce, spinach, kale, broccoli, and garlic.
- Spring-Blooming Bulbs: Dreaming of vibrant tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths in the spring? Now is the time to plant those bulbs! They need the cool winter months to develop properly.
Don’t Forget the Details:
- Clean Your Tools: Before storing your gardening tools for the winter, clean and sharpen them. This will keep them in good condition and ready for action in the spring.
- Protect Tender Plants: If you have any frost-sensitive plants, consider moving them indoors or providing some form of protection on colder nights.
- Enjoy Your Space! Even with the cooler weather, take some time to appreciate the beauty of your fall landscape. It’s a different kind of beauty, but just as rewarding.
Ready to Give Your Landscape Some November Love?
At DK Landscaping, we’re passionate about helping you create and maintain a beautiful and healthy outdoor space year-round. Whether you need help with fall cleanup, pruning, planting, or simply want some expert advice, our team is here for you.
Contact DK Landscaping today for a consultation and let us help you fall in love with your landscape all over again this November!