Soil Testing
As the weather progresses into the fall and the temperature moderates, it becomes time to consider planting Perennials, shrubs and trees. This is also the right time to rejuvenate the lawn. This period is usually the longest growth period of the year, followed by the dormant period of winter and then spring, which gives these types of plants time to set roots, prepare for winter dormancy and spring growth. It's recommended that the above endeavors should begin with a soil test from Rutgers. Obtain a test at this link.
Lawn Care
Don’t miss this opportunity to overseed your lawn. It’s the best month of the year to do so: cool temperatures, warm soils, low weed seed competition. Overseeding encourages a thick, healthy lawn which will result in fewer weeds such as crabgrass next year.
This Rutgers Fact Sheet Is a primer for how to seed. Take a quick look before you go to work in the yard.
Free Info & Events
The Rutgers Agriculture program, as well as many county extensions, offer a wide array of online seminars. I encourage all to look them over and take advantage of the tremendous amount of information available.
RU Ready 2 Garden
Free events are listed at RCE of Middlesex Co. and on the NJAES Calendar.
RCE of Ocean County’s In the Know To Grow free series is on Tuesdays evenings. Events are listed at and on the NJAES Calendar
Upcoming Programs (Links will be on the site)
- September 8th 6:30-7:30 pm- Tick Safety Susan Emhardt-Servidio, RCE Horticulturist
- September 22nd 6:30-7:30 pm- How to Grow Dazzling Dahlias- Debbie LaGattuta, RMG of Monmouth
- October 6th 6:30-7:30 pm- Terrariums Gene Cranmer, Rutgers Master Gardener
- October 20th 6:30-7:30 pm- Plants with Winter Interest- Irene Wanat, RMG
Jersey-Friendly Yards 2020 Webinar Series
Wild About Jersey-Friendly Yards!
September 1, 2020: Attracting Birds to Your Jersey-Friendly Yard- Becky Laboy
September 15, 2020: Wild About Composting- Sandra Blaine-Snow
September 29, 2020: How and When to Clean Up the Winter Wildlife Garden- Pat Sutton
In addition to the above info, The Monmouth County extension has a helpline that is free to the public. Advice and guidance is available on most subjects as well as diagnosis of diseases and other plant growth problems. I encourage all to use it by emailing your questions and/or photos of the diseased or damaged plant to mgarden@co.monmouth.nj.us.