Wisconsin weather is challenging! To assure you make the right moves at the right time when conditions are questionable, consult a David J.Frank horticultural expert. Our goal is to assist you in creating a robust landscape that will offer year-round interest and enjoyment.
October
Week 1:
+ Plant spring flowering bulbs with fertilizer and water as needed. + Deep water trees, shrubs and evergreens to prepare for winter.
Week 2:
+ Store pesticides in cool dry area where they won't freeze. + Remove plant foliage as it fades and dies on perennials. + Make sure to keep mowing the lawn and keep grass short to avoid rodent damage and disease.
Week 3:
+ Spray anti-desiccant on broadleaf evergreens and selected groundcovers. Be sure to read label instructions. + Drain and winterize fountains, ponds, etc.
Week 4:
+ Leave ornamental grasses standing for winter interest and seed bearing perennials for birds if desired, but remove other frost damaged plants for composting. + Install rodent protection around vulnerable shrubs. + Cultivate soil for early spring drying.
Welcome to Fall in Milwaukee. Fall is an ideal time to plan and accomplish a number of different garden-related projects. The most outstanding spring color is provided by flowering bulbs. These are planted in the fall months between late September and mid-November. Popular varieties include:
Multi-flowering or bunch tulips:
Red Georgette (cardinal red)
Happy Family (deep rose)
White Bouquet (ivory with yellow flame)
Orange Favorite Tulip:
Parrot (very fragrant)
Fringed Tulips:
Burgundy Lace (wine red with white fringed petals)
American Eagle (rich purple with white fringed petals)
Miniature Daffodils:
Minnow (6 flowers per stem - white with yellow cup)
Fragrant Hyacinth:
Anne Marie (pink)
City of Haarlem (yellow)
Gypsy Queen (salmon)
Amethyst (violet)
We look forward to talking with you and finding out how we can help you add spring color to your gardens.
+ A David J. Frank Landscape Client Services Representative can add set up a winterization plan at this time for your landscape.
+ Now is the time to contact a David J. Frank Landscape Architect for any spring landscape construction projects you may have in mind.
Most people don't start to think about their landscaping until that first sunny, 45 degree day in March or April. They then call a local landscape company with the hope that their project can be completed in time for Memorial Day. What they soon find out is that the majority of larger qualified landscape contractors (our company included) are already booked with work in the spring. Our recommendation is to set some time aside now in the fall to plan your landscape needs for next year. Stop by for a visit with one of our Landscape Architects or Designers and tour our Design/Idea Center and Theme Garden. Located at our corporate offices in Germantown, our Theme Garden allows you to see different design ideas arranged in small garden vignettes. Our staff is capable of working on your project during fall and even winter with the right conditions. And with design and planning now you have a better chance of having your project scheduled for completion in the spring.
