Welcome to Gardening
on the Olympic Peninsula!
The next Master Gardener training starts in January 2009
Master Composter training begins October 20. For more information click here
We're here to help!
Master Gardeners are local volunteers and avid gardeners who undergo an intensive training program before they are allowed to help other area gardeners. We've not only learned about gardening in Clallam County, but more importantly we've learned where to find current, safe solutions to local gardening problems. Working under the auspices of the WSU Extension agent, we pass on the latest horticultural research findings from WSU to local home gardeners through various programs such as this web site, summer plant clinics, our demonstration gardens, educational programs and so forth. For more information about Master Gardeners and our community service work contact Clallam County Master Gardeners!
Garden Tip for October: Plant Trees, Shrubs and Bulbs
We are entering the perfect time of year to begin planting spring blooming bulbs. Any time from now until the end of November is a great time to get bulbs into the ground. Good choices for spring bulbs in Western Washington are crocus, gladiolus, daffodils, narcissus, tulips and hyacinth. These are the most common bulbs seen in spring. Consult nursery catalogues for other ideas for less common bulb types.
Generally speaking, bulbs need fertile well drained soil and an area where they will get full sun in the spring. Working a small amount of bone meal or bulb fertilizer into the bottom of the whole helps promote larger, stronger blooms. Follow package directions for planting depth and be sure to water in well after planting....even if it's raining!
This is also the time to begin planting any trees or woody perennials you might wish to add to your landscape. Nurseries often have these plants on sale this time of year and some good bargains can be had. Be sure to check the c
ondition of the plant before purchase to make sure you have a healthy, disease free plant with good shape. Check the roots to see if it is root bound and determine if the problem can be fixed with a little root pruning and soaking in water to loosen the roots.
Be sure to choose a spot with the correct light requirements and be sure you are planting with enough distance between plants and buildings to allow for growth in the years ahead. Dig the hole two to three times as wide as the root spread of the transplant but only as deep as is necessary to back fill soil just to the bottom of the plant at the trunk flare. DO NOT AMEND THE SOIL WITH ANY COMPOST OR OTHER ORGANIC MATTER. Build a small mound in the bottom of the hole and spread the roots out over the mound. Backfill the hole with the same soil that you removed when you dug the hole and firmly tamp the soil down as you fill. The trick is to choose plants suited to the soils you will be planting in. Only prune off dead or crossing material, not healthy shoots or branches. You may work a nitrogen fertilizer into the top layer of soil to help strengthen roots over the winter. Water well and mulch with 2-3 inches of good mulch to out past the drip line.. Be sure to keep mulch back away from the trunk by several inches. Don't stake trees or shrubs unless absolutely necessary and remove stakes after one year.
Taking the time to do it right the first time will ensure that you have strong healthy trees and shrubs to last for many years!
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