to stop cool-season weeds such as wild mustard

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NOVEMBER

Reset sprinkler clocks to match requirements of the Southern Nevada Watering Authority Drought Watering Restrictions Guide if drought conditions are in effect. Get a copy from any Star Nursery. Inspect your irrigation system for correct water delivery to all plants. Your first watering time should not be earlier than 9am due to frost.

Stop lawn weed seeds from sprouting through application of a pre-emergent herbicide like Portrait?to stop cool-season weeds such as wild mustard, dandelions and oxalis.

Keep lawns active by applying a cool-season fertilizer like Dr. Q Winter Gem (21-3-7) or Nitra King?(22-3-9). Continue to plant fall and winter flowers.

Retrieve spring bulbs from the fridge and plant now. Use a tablespoon of Dr. Q? Gold Dust (5-10-5) or Bone Meal in the bottom of each hole. For a natural look, scatter bulbs by hand and plant where they fall. For an English garden look, plant annuals like pansies or stock on top of the bulb bed. The bulbs will sprout through them and the annuals will hide faded bulb foliage after spring bloom. (top)

Watch for frost as early as the 10th. Prepare to move houseplants indoors and have burlap or thermal blankets ready for citrus and other tender plants in case of a sudden freeze. Don prune deciduous plants until after New Year Day.

Consider a living Christmas Tree for the coming holiday season. Make it a permanent addition to your yard or donate it to a city park. See StarNote 125, Living Christmas Trees for complete details.

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DECEMBER

Christmas Trees are available as living pines or cut varieties for holiday decoration. See StarNote 120, Cut Tree Care Sheet, for information on care. Poinsettias make a festive addition to your decorating scheme. See StarNote 130, Poinsettia Care Sheet, for maintenance tips.

Select and plant dormant pot (or bare root) roses. The season for successful planting begins now. Plant as early as possible for best results. Amend soil properly and follow package directions. Ask a friendly sales associate if you have questions.

Plant protection and watering: Frost is likely throughout the month. Over watering increases susceptibility to frost damage. Barring rain or an abnormally warm period, a deep soaking every 2 weeks or so is sufficient. Don water cactus at all until February. Cover or bring tender plants indoors as necessary.

Divide spreading or tuberous perennials like chrysanthemum, daylily, primrose and ornamental grasses. Dig up the clump and divide by hand. Be sure to include equal amounts of roots and stems. All brown foliage should be cut off at ground level to encourage strong, fresh growth in spring.

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