Ask Arlene about fall plantings and elderberries©

Ask Arlene about fall plantings and elderberries©

By Arlene Wright-Correll

A recent email question asked, “What are good seeds to plant in the fall?”

Fall planting is very good because eighty percent of a plant’s root growth occurs in late summer and fall, so plants establish better. We used to have milder temperatures and more dependable rainfall help plants acclimate in the fall and the fall soil is warmer and more conditioned than spring soil, making root growth easier.  The seasons are changing.  However, I also find pests and diseases that might otherwise attack young, vulnerable plants are not as active or numerous in the fall and less water is required to establish fall plantings as plants begin to go dormant for the winter. Plants put into the ground in the fall bloom more profusely the following spring.  Plants with an established root system can better withstand heat and wind the following summer.  It is the best time of the year to plant trees instead of spring when they are offered.  I also find it the best time of the year to find tree bargains.  Aside it is the best time of the year to plant bulbs.

With all that in mind I will get back to the seeds. Oriental Poppies may be a good choice for fall planting in your area. Radishes are quick and easy for fall planting.  Beets are a cool-weather crop, direct-sown in fall or as soon as soil can be worked in spring. Before planting, make sure that the soil is as loose, rich, and well-drained as possible, so that the root can grow without stress. Turnip is suitable for spring, fall, and even winter crops in mild areas. It overwinters beautifully, and is perfect for New Year's Day. Garlic is a perfect fall crop.

Try Cornflower seeds which are a good perennial. Wild Flowers will grace your garden next spring and for years to come if you cut them down 6 to 8 inches above ground the next fall and there after.  Try Green Wizard Rudbeckia. How about spearmint, lavender, oregano, pampas grass, creeping thyme, sweet William, lambs ear, chamomile just to mention a few.  Try catnip.

You can obtain most all of these seeds at Home Farm Herbery with Free shipping & a free gift.

Another question asks, “I hear elderberries are good for flu or colds.  So you have a good recipe?”

Elderberry tonic recipe.

Ingredients:

2/3 cup Elderberries (fresh or frozen),

3-1/2 cups of water,

2 tbsp fresh or dried ginger root (or powder), 

1 tsp cinnamon powder,

1/2 tsp cloves or clove powder 

1 cup raw honey. 

Instructions: 

Pour water into a medium saucepan and add elderberries, ginger, cinnamon and cloves.

Bring to a boil and reduce to a simmer until the liquid reduces to almost half (about 45 minutes to 1 hour). 

Remove from heat and let cool for 15 minutes.

Pour through a strainer into a glass jar or bowl.

Discard the elderberries (feed to chickens or compost) and let the liquid cool to lukewarm. 

Add 1 cup of honey and stir well. (Note: honey is added after the mixture has cooled to keep raw enzymes intact). 

Pour mixture into glass jars to be stored in the fridge for up to three months. 

Recommended doses: Prevention (can be taken daily). 

Kids (13 months-12 years old): 1/2 to 1 teaspoon. 

Adults: 1/2 to 1 Tablespoon. 

NOTE: If you are really sick or if your child is really sick I recommend you seeing your doctor. 

May the Creative Force be with you as you tread the earth lightly!

Arlene Wright-Correll

Home Farm Herbery LLC