October 2006
That familiar amber-tinged evening light is settling in over the landscape and
fall is calling to the leaves. My golden rain tree is afire with red and yellow
flames and the hardy hibiscus shows off a brilliant pink bloom that is hued
into a peach glow in the light. There is a carpet of maple leaves blanketing
the pathway and the plants. Beautiful!
How I love the turning of the season to autumn! A burning bush is red-hot-red
while its two partners are still a deep green. The sumac is reddening while
the lilac is going purple. Annuals are still blooming their heads off, especially
the salmon geraniums. They are positively shameless in their display. I love
how some of the geraniums' leaves are tinged in red. Interesting how plants
are individuals, just like people. There are tiny green warblers in the trees
and shiny blackbirds sparring on the bird feeder. This season is all about color!
Wind is lapping through the leaves, like water; it washes over my face. Leaves
fly off the trees and color the ground. Fall clean ups are not far away... We
like to wait until most, if not all, leaves are off before we begin the task.
We use mowers, blowers and old-fashioned rakes to do the job. Usually this is
the final cut-down for the gardens as well. Often we can build up flowerbeds
with fall leaves, protecting and feeding the soil though the winter long. (Although
some folks don't want this.) If you want a clean up now, or all your leaves
are down, just let us know.
We want to remind you that Blue Planet and crews can take down dead trees (Walt
Thompson works with us, a certified arborist.) provide pond service, (We also
install small ponds and waterways!) build small wall projects, lay flagstone
and most any landscape service you would require. If we can't do the work, we
will help you find good people who can!
How long will this Indian Summer last? No one
really knows. Every year it seems to go just a little longer. A high in the
upper seventies and nights into the upper forties is blissful weather for gardens
and gardeners alike. The October evening is falling with the weatherman predicting
more moisture these next few days. Wow! Please let us know how we can serve
you.