With the peak summer months behind us, it is time to transition your yard for the fall season. Here are a few landscaping tasks to consider:
PLANTING
Warm soils, cooler weather, and the start of shorter days make late September ideal for refreshing your landscape. Fall planting gives roots time to establish before cold temperatures slow plant growth.
Desert-friendly plants that thrive in the region are excellent water-wise choices for your yard. They include drought- tolerant trees, citrus, shrubs, succulents, and native flowers that bloom in winter or early spring.
Fall is also a great time to fertilize. To rejuvenate flower beds and provide nutrients, apply slow-release fertilizers and incorporate organic matter such as compost to enrich the soil. You can also fertilize citrus trees this month, watering deeply before and after fertilizing.
MAINTENANCE
Plan to clear summer debris and remove weeds that compete with desirable plants for water, nutrients, and space. Focus on light pruning to encourage healthy growth and improve the appearance of your landscape. This may include removing damaged foliage from roses, clearing dead leaves from the base of agaves, and trimming overgrown vines.
Applying a fresh layer of mulch is also beneficial. Mulch helps retain soil moisture, regulate soil temperatures, and suppress weeds.
IRRIGATION
As temperatures begin to drop in the fall, landscaping water needs also decrease. Adjust your watering schedule for the season and review your irrigation timer to avoid unnecessary run times. Doing so can help save money on your monthly bill, conserve water, and prevent root rot on your newly established plants.
To further increase your water efficiency, take advantage of CVWD’s outdoor rebate programs, designed to help customers reduce their water use. Customers can also consider installing a drip irrigation system for trees and shrubs, which delivers water exactly where it is needed.
For ideas on plants to incorporate into your yard, see CVWD’s “Lush and Efficient: Desert-Friendly Landscaping in the Coachella Valley” at cvwd.org/LushEfficient.
To see the District’s irrigation guide, visit cvwd.org/watering-guide.
