Having to turn lights on first thing in the morning is a sign this year’s garden season has ended. Calgary, not known for a long growing season like the 2024 Grey Cup host city Vancouver, does have awesome September weather that helps push out the growing season one more month. Which definitely is a bonus to the Calgary gardener whose growing season starts after the May long weekend.
I must admit that writing an RCG article for the month of November is not easy. Let’s face it, all the flower and vegetable gardens are now frozen, and the evening sun is disappearing a little earlier each day. Does anyone talk about gardening in November?
Perhaps November is the month to reflect and document your garden’s successes and improvements. What plants need to be transplanted or divided next year? What vegetables need to be rotated? Does your soil need to rest for a year, or does it just require fertilizer and compost? What trees need to be pruned and when? Elm trees can only be pruned between October and March to prevent the Dutch Elm Disease from spreading. Are there any other restrictions or interests you want to research? It is also exciting to make a list of all the new plants you want to try next year and to sign up for seed catalogues if you prefer hard copy. Also, a good time to browse the internet while fresh in your mind the plants your fellow gardener told you about this season.
November may be a dreary month, but by reflecting on what you have accomplished in your garden and starting to plan for next year’s growing season may make November a bit sunnier all the while keep your gardening spirit alive over the upcoming winter months.
The Smiling Gardeners
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