SEPTEMBER IN THE GARDEN
Michael Clark
Tropic of Capricorn

Hooray! September is here, and with it cool nights, bright warm days—and it looks like some reserves of moisture in the soil from the alleged monsoons. Plants are requiring a bit less water, and more importantly, the “low and slow” technique of watering is necessary. It is best to keep water off the foliage now so as not to encourage powdery mildew, which loves cool weather and moisture.

Now is the time to divide perennials, including iris. To prepare for fall root growth, your plants would love extra phosphorous; however, it’s also time to cut back on nitrogen, which doesn’t mix well with cold.

Sanitation is always in season, so whilst deadheading make sure to fill your compost with not only those old flowers, but also any diseased plant parts, dead plants and fruit. This cleaning will give you a head start for next year’s pest-free garden!