August is for Extending the Garden into Fall!

August in the North Country is a double-edged trowel. While some plants are in their glory, others look tired and spent. Many of our annuals have run their course and are fading fast, especially with the hot, humid and wet weather. Hardier varieties and the mid to late-summer bloomers are fresh and thriving.  And then there is fall, right around the corner. In fact, late summer and early fall is a great time for planting, with its cooler temperatures.  While the garden chores seem never-ending, we all know winter will be here before we know it. What can we do to extend all those vibrant blooms into the fall?  Here is a list of beautiful late summer/fall perennials and shrubs that ADK has available:   

Perennials                   Moisture              Light 

Rudbeckias  ( many varieties: goldstrum, vivettes lil Susie, prairie glow, etc.)	Well-drained, fertile soil that retains moisture. For sandy soil, add well-rotted organic matter when planting.	Blooms best in full sun, the shadier the location, the fewer flowers they'll produce.
Sedums (autumn joy, etc)	Well-drained soil with a neutral to slightly alkaline pH.	Full sun
Anemones	Well-drained soil and you can improve the soil by digging in compost.	Full sun to part shade
Asters	Well-drained, loamy soil	Full sun for ample blooms
Veronica (NY Ironweed)	Drought tolerant	Full sun
Ligularia	Moisture retentive	Partial sun
Helianthus	Tolerates poor drainage and drought-tolerant	Full sun
Heliopsis	Dry to medium-wet soil	Full sun

Shrubs               

Hydrangea (long bloom time)	For the first few years, water generously during a drought	Full sun to part shade
Oso Roses	Moist, well-drained soil	Full sun

Final Tips for the August Garden: Weed, water, deadhead. Happy planting!