Stone Canyon Neighborhood Newsletter www.stonecanyonoa.org
October 2013
Volume 8, Issue 10
Official Publication of Stone Canyon Homeowners Association
Landscapes and Lawns by Charles Evans
SEPTEMBER
Traditionally, the month of September brings a slight cooling trend to central Texas. By slight, I mean that we might have a few days of triple-digit weather, rather than a few days NOT in the triple-digit range. It’s been a hot summer. Hopefully, some of our gardens and landscapes survived the brutal drought. Whether they did or not, Autumn is the season that our gardens may be redeemed. TREES
The immediate danger of spreading oak wilt is between the months of February and June. The high heat and humidity conditions during this time period are perfect for these fungal spores to thrive. As the weather begins to cool, the chances of passing infection from tree to tree decreases dramatically. Still, proper pruning techniques are vital to maintaining the health of any plant, especially trees. When pruning trees, especially oaks, ensure your tools are clean and the wound is treated with a pruning paint to avoid introduction of infection. Pruning too late in the season may flush new growth which may not have time to harden off before a freeze, which may in turn lead to stunted growth.
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Tree planting is highly encouraged in the fall, provided adequate irrigation is available through establishment. ORNAMENTAL BEDS
Maintaining a thick layer of mulch on all perennial beds and continuing to water deeply and infrequently will help to ensure the vitality of your ornamentals going into Fall. Pruning some woody perennials now can result in an impressive show of fall flowers. Remember to never remove more than one-third of the foliage of the plant when pruning, and wait at least a week before and after any major pruning to apply fertilizers or pest control agents. TURF
As the month progresses, and the heat and humidity begin to slack, Core aeration and light compost applications may be an adequate substitute for fall fertilization. What core aeration does for turf that fall fertilization does not do, is provide the soil substrate and turf root systems with access to oxygen, which is vital to soil health. Continue practicing responsible water stewardship, and the combination of these methods will provide you with enviable results.
Stone Canyon Homeowner's Association Newsletter - October 2013
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