By Tammy Thorton
Shore Local Gardener
As we wave goodbye to our out-of-state friends, ship the kids off to school, and sit back to enjoy “Locals’ Summer”, we see a change in our gardens. We, as exhausted hosts, breathe a sigh of relief and enjoy the calmer beaches of September. In the same way, if you listen very closely, you can hear your garden let out that same exhale of calm. Though the days are still warm, the sun has shifted and relented, and your plants and flowers feel like they can breathe again.
Often at this time of year, you will see some of your spring-blooming perennials stir with life and send out a second round of flowers, albeit more subdued than the explosion of blooms in spring. During the peak of summer when it was blazing hot, these plants went into defense mode and escaped into a bit of dormancy. But as nights and early mornings cool down, the flowers can relax, let down their guard, and send out new blooms. In my garden, New Dawn roses and other roses, as well as plants such as weigela, show their faces in a September curtain call. My friend Esther used to call this phenomenon the “Autumn Spring”. You may see perennials such as dianthus flowers go for a final spin around the garden path before saying goodbye to summer, especially if you had cut them back after flowering. Annuals will also raise their weary heads. Petunias bloom best in full sun, but when heat waves hit, they start to wilt. However, as temperatures cool down, you may see your petunias and other hanging basket flowers experience a revival. Make sure they are well-watered and trim off any damaged or dying parts of the plant. This will allow these plants to put their energy into new growth instead of stressing themselves for the lost cause of shriveled extremities. You will also be giving them a fighting chance when winter comes along, since healthy plants will be more likely to survive. Our gardening zone 7 can give us some surprises in spring. With protection, some tender perennials that normally succumb to cold temperatures may tough it out in our borderline area along the coast. What a treat during spring cleanup to find new life and on a plant that wasn’t “supposed” to make it. Of course, I have found this to be especially true after a mild winter. A healthy dose of mulch and the protection of a wall or fence can aid in survival of these plants.
September in South Jersey gives us a little summer bonus. Traffic has died down, our beaches are less crowded, and you might even find a good parking spot in town. Along with your garden, enjoy these last few weeks of summer. Though Labor Day has come and gone, we have some beautiful days ahead to drink in the sun and breathe in the fresh sea area air. Resist all things pumpkin and hold fall back for a little longer. Pick some flowers, harvest those final summer vegetables, and praise God for another day of life.
Tammy Thornton lives with her husband, children, and crazy pets while enjoying a life of gardening, cooking, and going to the beach.
