As we transition into autumn, it’s time to gather cuttings from delicate perennials like fuchsia, verbena, coleus, Marguerite daisies, gazania, heliotrope, and salvias for planting next spring. Additionally, consider taking semi-ripe cuttings of evergreen shrubs such as hebes, camellias, choisya, holly, laurel, and box, along with herbs like rosemary and lavender, and conifers.
To ensure successful propagation, select healthy stems measuring 4 to 6 inches in length, just below a leaf node, and pot them up promptly. Morning is the best time to collect cuttings when they are full of moisture. Keep them hydrated by placing them in a plastic bag until planting.
Using sharp tools, take multiple cuttings from your chosen plants, opting for vigorous non-flowering shoots. Pot them in well-draining compost, either individually or grouped in larger containers. Maintain moisture levels, and once new growth appears, it indicates successful root development for individual potting.
Despite recent warm weather, the shift to autumn is imminent, though in our region, seasons can blend seamlessly. Late-blooming perennials will continue to add vibrancy to your garden until the arrival of frost. September is an excellent time to introduce herbaceous perennials into the ground, benefiting from the lingering warmth to establish before cooler temperatures set in.
Asters, often referred to as “frost flowers” for their late blooming nature, offer a variety of colors and shapes. New England Aster cultivars like ‘Pink Parfait’ and ‘Winston Churchill’ provide mildew resistance and striking blooms. Japanese anemones, such as ‘Honorine Jobert’ and ‘Frilly Knickers,’ thrive in partial shade, offering elegance and charm to garden beds.
Rudbeckias, also known as coneflowers or Black-eyed Susans, brighten up September gardens with their cheerful daisy-like blooms. Helianthus ‘Soleil d’Or,’ a perennial sunflower, adds a burst of yellow to containers, complemented by filler plants like cosmos and calendula. Include fragrant phlox varieties like ‘Monica Lynden-Bell’ for a sensory experience attracting pollinators.
For a touch of blue, consider planting the sky blue “blue lace flower” from Australia, known for its dome-shaped blossoms. Sow seeds indoors in spring for outdoor planting after the last frost, providing a nectar-rich treat for bees and other pollinators. This delicate flower also makes a charming addition to cut flower arrangements.
As you plan your garden for the changing season, remember to care for your plants accordingly, ensuring they thrive in the evolving weather conditions.