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• Early autumn is the best time of the year for the sowing of grass seed. Grass sown in spring is often killed by hot, dry summer weather. For more vigorous growth, spread a very thin mulch of clean straw over newly seeded areas. The straw shades delicate seedlings from the hot sun and helps preserve moisture in the soil, yet allows enough light through for germination. By the time cold weather arrives, the grass is fairly well established and ready to grow and thicken early the following spring.
• Fall is usually cool and moist and a good time to plant trees and shrubs. Research has shown that roots will continue to grow until the soil freezes, which is about Thanksgiving in Virginia most years. This is true for both evergreen and deciduous plants.
• Lawns should be fertilized in late September or early October. Consult your local Extension Agent for the most recent recommendations.
Perennials
• Fall is a great time to plant and divide perennials for next year’s garden. By planting in the fall, your plants do not endure the stressful summer heat during establishment and have time to form sufficient root systems before the onset of winter dormancy
• Plant peonies now, but make sure the crowns are buried only 1 1/2 to 2 inches below ground level. Deeper planting keeps the plants from blooming.
• Perennial phlox should be divided about every third or fourth year. Early fall and early spring are the best times to plant and transplant them. Divide big clumps into thirds.
• Divide lily of the valley now and mix organic matter and fertilizer into the soil before replanting.
• Mums can be transplanted while in bloom, which makes them useful for instant landscapes in early autumn. Water thoroughly the day before (or at least several hours before) digging plants, retaining as much of the root system as possible. Dig the new hole, and gently loosen a small amount of soil from the outer soil depth. Water thoroughly after placing the plants to settle them in. As with any transplanting, it is best to move mums in early morning or late evening when temperatures are cool. Monitor plants carefully for several days for wilting and shade briefly during the hotter part of the day, if necessary.
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