Autumns Colors….. Central Oregon Style
Wednesday, September 10th, 2008
The days are getting a little shorter and the nights can sometimes be frosty all of which can set the tone for Autumns grand color parade. If your garden and landscape is a little scant on potential “color stars” then you might want to grab a shovel and plant a few of the reliable species. Burning Bush is always a good canidate as are the Sumacs. Red Twig Dogwood shrubs will not only give you fabulous foliage but the red stems will be a standout when the snow comes. Many species of the Spirea family will offer you intriging yellow and orange hues. Ornamental grasses such as the Miscanthus will add dramatic upright texture. If you are looking for a larger shrub look no farther than one called “Red Rhapsody” maple. An introduction from Monrovia Nursery that is more resistant to disease than common Amur or Flame maples. In the perennial flower department you should check out the array of Coral Bells, late blooming Coreopsis, and Joe Pie Weed. Annual favorites would include Violas, Pansies, varieties of Hebe, and “tougher than nails” Asters. Always improve the soil with good organic compost and a few cups of “Cold Climate” organic fertilizer before planting. Enjoy this wonderful time of the year and Happy Planting…. Doug
The days are getting a little shorter and the nights can sometimes be frosty all of which can set the tone for Autumns grand color parade. If your garden and landscape is a little scant on potential “color stars” then you might want to grab a shovel and plant a few of the reliable species. Burning Bush is always a good canidate as are the Sumacs. Red Twig Dogwood shrubs will not only give you fabulous foliage but the red stems will be a standout when the snow comes. Many species of the Spirea family will offer you intriging yellow and orange hues. Ornamental grasses such as the Miscanthus will add dramatic upright texture. If you are looking for a larger shrub look no farther than one called “Red Rhapsody” maple. An introduction from Monrovia Nursery that is more resistant to disease than common Amur or Flame maples. In the perennial flower department you should check out the array of Coral Bells, late blooming Coreopsis, and Joe Pie Weed. Annual favorites would include Violas, Pansies, varieties of Hebe, and “tougher than nails” Asters. Always improve the soil with good organic compost and a few cups of “Cold Climate” organic fertilizer before planting. Enjoy this wonderful time of the year and Happy Planting…. Doug
