AUTUMN JOY

Photo by Pearl

Sedum 'Autumn Joy' is just beginning to show a tinge of pink in our Children's ABC Garden.  As it matures, the pink color will deepen and eventually turn a coppery color.  The flower heads may be left standing over the winter for some textural interest.  As with all sedums, well drained soil is a must.  But other than that, little care is needed for this consistent performer.  In the early summer you can pinch back the tips to reduce the height and make a fuller plant.  However, the bloom will be smaller and later.  If left alone, it may reach 2 feet in height and have a little flop.  It is also a butterfly magnet.

Click here for a fact sheet:  AUTUMN JOY

FALL VEGETABLE PLANTING

Last week the following seeds of fall growing vegetables were planted in our Vegetable Plot at the Arboretum:

• Broccoli
• Brussel Sprouts
• Carrots
• Detroit Dark Red Beets
• Purple Top Turnips
• Radish Saxa
• Yellow Cabbage Collards

Click here for some basic instructions to plant your own fall garden: 

GROWING A FALL VEGETABLE GARDEN

AUGUST IS CHECK YOUR TREE MONTH

There aren't many tasks in the garden easier than this during the waning days of summer.  Although the Asian Beetle has not reached NC yet, it is a good practice to keep an eye on your landscape.  It doesn't take long for insects to hitch a ride on something like firewood carried from state to state and then become a problem.  Check out this USDA website for what to look for:  Asian Longhorned Beetle

Who knows what else you might discover when touring your own yard.  If you need help identifying any insects, diseases, or other problems in your garden, call the Master Gardener Hotline at 902-1705.

OTHER INTERNET SOURCES

Don't forget to check our other social media sites for Arboretum updates:

PITT COUNTY ARBORETUM FACEBOOK PAGE

and

Danny Lauderdale's TWEETS