I know what you are all thinking. August? We’re “done” planting! The weeds are relatively under control; the sprinkler systems are dialed in and tweaked and working well; the sales on the petunias and marigolds are about over and what’s the point of planting them now anyway? It’s just time for maintenance – a bit of weeding and deadheading – but mostly just enjoying the gardens, the cutting flowers, the green lawn, etc.

Or is it?

In actuality, NOW is the time that you find many of the nicest perennials at the nurseries, and it’s a great time to think about the plants & shrubs you need to add to your landscape for next year. Everything is up that is going to come up, so it’s a great time to identify “gaps” and determine what colors are “missing.” Perennials and shrubs are enjoyed for years to come, so also add value to your home. The nights are beginning to be cooler, so it is a good time for planting as it is less stress on the plants and generally requires a bit less water to get them off to a healthy start. With roots already becoming established, fall plantings are better able to survive a hot, dry summer the following season than trees or shrubs planted that spring.

It is also the time when we think about Fall color in our gardens and around our home. I know that if you moved here from anywhere “back East” you always miss those reds and oranges that the deciduous trees provide. Think about creating some of that here! Here are a few suggestions to get you started:

• Mums
  
• Asters
  
• Dwarf Burning bush
  
• Gold Flame Spirea
  
• Pawnee Buttes Sand Cherry
  

Like dramatic? Like something just a bit different?

• Japanese anemone adds a tall, late blooming accent of pink, rose or white to the Fall garden.