October 2001

Edible

Dig up herbs - chives, parsley, rosemary, thyme, sage and tarragon. Shake off soil and pot up using a potting soil. Gradually introduce herbs to a bright, sunny window.

Preserve basil by making a basil infused vinegar.

Pick pumpkins at a local pumpkin farm. Check our Pumpkins & More site at http://www.urbanext.uiuc.edu/pumpkins or call 773-233-0476 for a listing.

Become a Master Gardener. Call 773-233-0476 for an application or submit application online at http://www.urbanext.uiuc.edu/chicago/mg/application.html

Ornamental

Mow, mulch, shred or compost leaves.

Plant tulips, daffodils, crocus and other spring flowering bulbs.

Dig and store dahlias, cannas and caladiums in a frost-free location.

Continue watering, especially evergreens, if soils are dry.

Winterize your lawn mower. Disconnect the spark plug. Remove blade and have it sharpened. Scrape out old grass and debris. Drain and refill the oil. Drain the remaining gasoline. Clean and lubricate all moving parts.

Cut back perennials when their leaves and stems have lost their green color.
Spread fine mesh chicken wire over the soil where bulbs have been planted to keep squirrels and chipmunks from digging them up. Cover mesh with mulch.

For earliest spring blooms, plant galanthus or snow drops. These white, bell-shaped flowers bloom in late January.

Wrap or fence young trees and shrubs to protect them from rodents, deer and rabbits. Factsheet available.

Mulch around trees to help retain moisture during upcoming, harsh winter weather. Keep mulch 4 to 6 inches away from trunk. Mulch mounded up against trunk can cause bark to rot, girdling and killing the tree.

Line shelves and window sills with aluminum foil. The foil will reflect light and provide more light for houseplants.