Bringing the outdoors in

Late September is a good time for gardeners to be thinking about winter greenery and bloom. Many of us have potted plants outside that will need to be brought in before a freeze. Given last week?s chilly temperatures, you may already have taken this step. If not, watch weather forecasts to time the move, and give the plant a thorough shower and careful visual examination to minimize the threat of pests.

For a number of plants, including impatiens, coleus, and inch plant, the best strategy for making the transition is to take stem cuttings right about now. Again, be sure to rinse away any pests first; if in doubt, turn to a different plant in a different area of the garden. Once you?ve identified the healthiest choices, snip off as many cuttings as you choose, allowing a good 3 inches of stem. Root the cuttings in water, ideally rain water or filtered tap water. When good roots emerge, you can pot up the cuttings, using clean pots and good potting soil.

Cuttings can be taken from geraniums as well, but the procedure is more complicated. Look for detailed directions in a comprehensive guide to plant propagation. Another option is to permit geraniums to go dormant in a cool, dark basement area, with the temperature in the upper 40s or low 50s. To do this, shake all soil loose from each plant?s roots and hang the plant or place it in an open paper bag.

However, if you do have the light available, give your geraniums the royal treatment: cut each plant back by 1/2; clean thoroughly; repot in fresh soil and attractive pots; water well and then water regularly when the soil becomes dry. A south window is ideal. (One of my fond memories from years of working at Iowa Wesleyan is walking through Old Main and enjoying the red and pink geraniums lining the generous south windows there.)

There are numerous other plants that you might like to save for next year, including tropical beauties such as mandevilla and hibiscus. These can be overwintered successfully, but they won?t be beauties through the winter months! Your best bet is to opt for dormancy. Bring them in before there is the slightest risk of cold temperatures, and allow them to have a transition period in indirect light. Expect considerable leaf drop. Cut mandevilla vines back to 12 inches after a few weeks. Taper off on watering, and move the plants to an area, probably a basement, where the temperature will stay above 50 degrees.

Right now: Start raking, especially on recently established areas of turfgrass.

On a clear, dry day, pick flowers and remaining herbs for drying.