Well, here we are, going into fall, which is a great time to plant and divide perennials, bulbs, shrubs and trees.
The weather is usually cooler, and wetter compared to spring and summer, which gives the plants a better chance to get established, rather than during hot weather, when they are competing for moisture.
Now is the best time to move and divide peonies. But be mindful to plant the small, pink buds on the roots no more than 2.5 to five centimetres (one to two inches) below the soil, as they need the sun to grow and produce the beautiful blooms next year. They may take a few years to reproduce, as they do not like to be disturbed. Do not cover with mulch around the crown.
Having found a new shrub at one of our local garden centres, I was quite pleased to find an orange diervilla, which is a gorgeous native, non-invasive honeysuckle. It is a very hardy, easy-care shrub, unlike the invasive Asian type.
It has brilliant orange foliage in spring and fall, with small yellow flowers that attract bees and butterflies. It is also available in a red variety that has deep burgundy tones in spring and vivid red in the fall.
It tolerates shade and dry conditions, but would appreciate an occasional drink.
Both varieties provide exciting autumn displays of yellow, orange, red and purple. They grow a metre tall and can be trimmed in the spring.
This shrub is a great addition to add low-maintenance variety and colour to your landscape.
If you want to learn more about orange diervilla and other plants, the Dunnville Horticultural Society meets on the third Thursday of the month at the Optimist Hall, from September to June. For more information, check out our website at dunnvillehortandgardenclub.org or our Facebook page. Club president Deb Zynomirski can also be reached by email at debzyn@gmail.com or by phone at 416-566-9337.
Marlene Link is a member of the Dunnville Horticultural Society.