October Cleveland County OSU Extension Horticulture Newsletter

October 2022

THE NEW HORT THYMES

Serving Cleveland County with the most up to date gardening, lawn, landscaping, and horticulture information.

Don't Forget to Take Our Survey!

2023 is around the corner and we are beginning to prepare next year's programs. We would love to hear from you! Tell us what you would like to see next year. Your feedback will help us determine important horticulture and environmental programs for Cleveland County

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Take Our Survey!

October Plant of the Month

Little Bluestem

A unique texture that will last through winter

In the winter, our design strategy switches to focusing on form and texture, rather than color like the rest of the year. Ornamental grasses are a great way to achieve texture and movement in winter gardens. This of course include little bluestem. Little blue stem, Schizachyrium scoparium, is native to Oklahoma prairies. It has deep root systems to help with soil stabilization and water uptake. Fluffy flower clusters can persist through winter. Cut back in early spring for new growth each season. In shady conditions, the plant will flop over, so make sure to plant in full sun.

Garden Tips for October

Begin planting spring-flowering bulbs like tulips, hyacinths, crocus, and daffodils

Plant cool-season annuals like pansies, ornamental cabbage or kale, and snapdragons when temperatures begin to cool

Spring-flowering perennials should be divided or planted now

Mulch around perennials to increase overwintering chances

Purchase trees from nurseries and garden centers at this time to select for the fall color you prefer

Many perennials can be planted at this time and are easier to establish

Dig sweet potatoes and harvest winter squash before frost

Consider building cold frame to protect cool-season crops for production during the winter

Remove all debris from the garden to prevent overwintering of various garden pests

Cool-season lawns like fescue can be established now

Consider planting a cover crop in the vegetable garden

Broadleaf weeds like dandelion can be controlled during October

Mow and neatly edge warm-season lawns before killing frost

Bring tropical and tender perennials inside before temperatures drop too low

Consider creating a compost pile; the abundance of leaves and other garden debris can make a great start

Preserve herbs for fresh flavor throughout the winter

Upcoming Events

Master Gardener Community Education Class | Oklahoma Proven

Date & Time: October 15th, 10:00am to 11:00am

Location: Cleveland County OSU Extension Office, Classroom C, 601 E Robinson, Norman, OK 73071

The Cleveland County Master Gardener Association, as part of OSU Extension, aims to present research-based information to the public... read more

Master Gardener Community Education Class | Native Plants for Oklahoma

Date & Time: November 19th, 10:00am to 11:00am

Location: Cleveland County OSU Extension Office, Classroom C, 601 E Robinson, Norman, OK 73071

The Cleveland County Master Gardener Association, as part of OSU Extension, aims to present research-based information to the public...

Oklahoma State University, State, and Local governments cooperating. The Oklahoma State University Cooperative Extension Service offers its programs to all eligible persons regardless of age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, genetic information, gender identity, national origin, disability, marital or veteran status, or any other legally protected status. OCES provides equal opportunities in program and employment.