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October Gardening In The Low Desert 2001

© Pat Kolb

Dear friends, the events of September have altered our lives in ways we could not have guessed. We grieve for those lost, the families and friends of those lost and honor them all, as well as all the marvelous people who have, and who are, helping with the tragedy. The firefighters, policemen, rescue workers of all kinds as well as the unsung heroes in ordinary people. There has been an outpouring of selflessness in those who contribute money, time, goods and services. Fortunately, this is the norm for Americans. Our strength as a nation lies in our ability to collectively get past this, unite as we have always done in time of war and get on with our lives. For most of us, this is not easy but our president is right about us getting back to as normal a life as we can. We must show the world what Americans can do in the face of any kind of adversity. It will be hard and we will never again feel as secure as we have in the past but we can, and will, get it done. So, get out there and garden. (Editorial finished)

Even though it is officially fall, here in the low desert in Phoenix, we are beginning to wonder if the weatherman knows it is fall. Sept. was hot, hot, hot.

Now through mid-November is the ideal time to sow seed for wildflowers or set out plants. Choose a sunny spot and loosen the soil about 3 or 4 inches, water to germinate the weeds for removal and then scatter about ¼ ounce of seed for 25 sq. ft. Lightly rake to soil to cover. Or, set out plants. Water as often as needed to keep soil moist until seedlings appear and then two or three times a week.

October and November are the best months to plant trees in the low desert so they can get established before summer heat next year. As always, weigh the considerations of deciduous vs. evergreen, the eventual height and width of the trees and whether they have any bad habits such as dropping litter, invasive roots or low growing branches that need to be trimmed often from pathways, etc. If you have power lines, you want to avoid planting anything that will grow into them and you probably will not want to plant a tall tree much closer than ten feet from your house to avoid damage to your foundation. Smaller trees can be planted a little closer. Also, will a tree shade your garden too much where you plan to put it. Trees chosen for specific attributes - shade, fruit, bloom, size, etc., will be a happy purchase with less chance of them becoming a nuisance later. Consult a good garden book such as the Sunset Western Garden Book.

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