Dormant Feeding of Trees, Shrubs, Perennials, and Other Desirable Plants in the Landscape –– Once deciduous trees are fully in color and dropping leaves (usually around mid-October), it is time for dormant feeding of trees and shrubs. Trees, shrubs and evergreens (except those planted within the last year and well-established trees), perennials and bulbs will benefit from a dormant fall feeding. With shallow-rooted trees (small evergreens) and shrubs, we recommend that you use an organic-based, slow-release fertilizer, such as Espoma’s Holly-tone, Plant-tone or Tree-tone. Scatter liberally beneath the branches, over the roots and scratch the surface to ensure that the fertilizer gets into the root-zone. With taller evergreen shrubs and trees and with all deciduous trees, we prefer formed fertilizer spikes inserted at the dripline at an approximate depth of 12-15” in the ground. Use 3 spikes for every 2” of tree caliper at chest height. Use a hardwood stake or a crowbar to punch the holes in the ground. Do not fill in the holes after dropping the fertilizer spikes in them. This allows water to enter the feeding zone more easily, thus activating the fertilizer faster.
Planting in the Fall – Whether you’re planting or transplanting trees, shrubs, perennials, or fall mums and asters, the time is right now. Planting now allows for some root development before winter cold hits. Fall root development (and mulching) will help prevent heaving of new plantings. All of our lovely shrubs are currently 30% off in the nursery yard. So, come in and look around for fall bargains, and feel absolutely confident that plants bought and planted in the fall will do great. Be sure to use a good, slow-release fertilizer or Espoma’s Bio-Tone when prepping the holes before planting. Then mulch well (3-4 inches to prevent winter heaving), water in thoroughly, and enjoy the beauty now and next spring.
Animals in Your Yard – The deer and other wildlife are out in full attack mode at this time. They’re stocking up energy and fat for the winter by decimating our plants. Come by our garden center to get the best repellents and detractors available for plant and garden protection. And, while you’re here, check out our birding department (currently 30% off regular prices); we’ve got all the specialized feeds and mixes, lots of feeders, bird houses, and mounting devices. Let the songbirds know now that you’re going to be there for them when the snow flies!
This year certainly has presented its challenges both personally and in our yards. At The Lawn Depot, we continue to put our staff and customer safety above all else. We are limiting the number of patrons in the store as required by the PA Dept. of Health. We have an outside register (credit/debit only) in our nursery yard for your convenience. Call ahead, pre-paid curbside pick-up and delivery (delivery fees apply) of store products are available as well. We are doing everything we can to make your experience with us comfortable and pleasant.
It’s our hope at The Lawn Depot that we’ll be your go-to source for the lawn and garden products and services you need. We’ve got the problem solving know how, and always look forward to seeing those of you who we’ve known for many years, and to meeting and getting to know any of you who we’ve not yet met. It’s our pleasure to provide the assistance and answers you seek. See you soon!