Whenever winters are fairly mild, shrubs, trees, ground covers and even some herbaceous plants will get a head start if you plant in autumn. We in Valley Center are likely to have cold periods and a frost or two, so make sure that the plants that you have chosen can withstand a few frosts. 

 

Now is the time to plant because our soil is still warm. Nights in our microclimate can dip down to the 30s (even rarely the 20s), but our days are thankfully warm. The roots of the plants will continue to grow even though we have markedly cooler night temperatures.

 

Here are some suggestions of plants that will do well planted right now:

 

Ground covers: Chamomile, mondo grass, rosemary, strawberry, star jasmine, ice plant (great plant for fire retardation!!!).

 

Shrubs: Azalea, camellia, ceanothus, conifers, daphne, privet, rhododendron, roses, lilac, and native shrubs.

 

Perennials: All spring flowering.

 

Annuals: Iceland poppy, pansy, primrose, snapdragon, stock, sweet pea, nemesia, calendula.

 

Vegetables: Cabbage, asparagus and other early bloomers.

 

Remember – Dos Valles is YOUR local resource for great gardens and gardening tips! Send your questions to: mariellen92082@yahoo.com