Mid-Atlantic
August, 2004
Regional Report
Take Cuttings
It's time to start taking stem or tip cuttings of favorite geraniums, begonias, coleus, impatiens, and other non-hardy flowering or specialty plants to overwinter as houseplants on a sunny windowsill.
Plant Seasonal Favorites
Plant seasonal flowers, such as mums, ornamental kale, and pansies, as they become available so you can enjoy them for as long as possible. Fertilize, water, and mulch to help them adapt to their new location.
Plant Cover Crops
As you clear out spent vegetable or cut flower crops, consider planting a green manure or cover crop, such as buckwheat, annual rye, or oats, to add organic matter to enrich the soil and help reduce erosion this winter.
Divide Perennials
German and Siberian iris, rudbeckia, daylilies, and hostas can all be divided and transplanted now. One plant can be divided into as many or as few divisions as you wish; larger divisions will make larger plants the first year. This also is the time to plant peonies.
Repair Lawns
Late August to early September is a good time to refurbish a sparse or bare lawn. Lawn grasses grow well during the cooler (and typically moist) months ahead and develop a healthy root system before winter sets in. This will give your lawn a definite head start next spring.
