Divide and Conquer

With all the new plants in the garden, I began sketching and documenting the location of each plant. We also redefined the edge along the garden beds. During the dog days of summer, the border tends to recede and get overrun by weeds. I extended the middle garden bed to create a more prominent focal point that can be seen from both the back deck and the front street view.

The task is overwhelming. I find that it helps to start by removing all spent leaves and branches. Trim your perennials back. Do not compost diseased leaves. Then shape the garden bed and make a clean finish.



In addition to moving my plants around, I divided a lot of my perennials - lamb's ear, foxglove, black eyed susan, jethrow tull, scabiosa, and arugula. I also repotted my houseplants, so they can get through the winter.


Since there were so many basil bushes, I found a new way to re-use them by turning them into "potpourri". Instead of lavender bundles, I have made basil bundles by hanging them upside down to dry.


Look how my cathedral bell has developed into a deep purple. I love this vine!


We also took a day trip to Cranford, NJ where they had their Fall Scarecrow contest. This garden witch was my favorite scarecrow by The Green Thumb Garden Club. There are lots of really good ones, but of course this had to be my favorite!


Next weekend:

• Staple molding around kitchen windows and doors.
• Place trim into canister lights.
• Clean and trim shrubs and garden bed.
  
• Plant perennials in middle garden bed.