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Farmer's Almanac forecasts a 'dramatic' winter

9/26/2025

Expect a "classic winter wonderland" in Colorado during the 2025-2026 winter season, with very cold and dramatic temperature swings

Some winter reports suggest varying conditions for the west versus the south, but others indicate our entire state can expect widespread wintry weather and a potential early start to winter with snow lasting into April in some areas.

Key points from the Farmer's Almanac forecast for Colorado:

Very Cold and Snowy: Colorado is expected to experience a colder-than-normal winter with plenty of snow.
Dramatic Temperature Swings: Expect significant fluctuations between warm and cold periods.
Early Start to Winter: The winter season may begin earlier than usual.
Lingering Cold: Some areas of the U.S. could see cold conditions extend into April.
"Chill, Snow, Repeat": The almanac describes the season as a "wild ride" of continuous cold and snow.
Location-Specific Details: Some reports suggest a mild winter with mixed precipitation for the western half of the state and more snow in the southern mountains.

Implications for Spring gardening

Monitor Late Winter Conditions: Be ready for unexpected snow and cold even in late winter, and don't put away snow shovels too soon.
Use the Frost Date Calculator: Use The Old Farmer's Almanac's frost date calculator to get your exact last spring frost date, which is crucial for planning planting times.
Focus on Soil Health: Regardless of the forecast, begin soil preparation by incorporating organic matter like compost to improve fertility and drainage for a stronger spring growing season.
Timing is Key: Prepare for traditional planting timelines but stay flexible due to potentially unpredictable late-season weather.

Predicting Winter weather: squirrels, woolly worms, and other folklore signs from Farmer's AlmanacHow animals, plants, and old weather rhymes can hint at a harsh or mild winter—and what science says about it. Learn more about the behaviors of squirrels, birds, bees, and more in this fascinating article from Farmer's Almanac.

The average first snow in the Front Range is October 18. The record for earliest snowfall is September 3, with the latest snowfall on record being December 10.

How to use pumpkins as planters (and make them last)

9/26/2025

Elevate the look of pumpkins by using them as flower 'vases'

Carving out pumpkins to use as flower containers is a festive way to decorate for fall, combining natural beauty with seasonal charm.

They are perfect for porches, tablescapes, or centerpieces and can be customized with flowers in harvest colors like orange, yellow, burgundy, or purple. When the pumpkin eventually begins to soften, simply compost it and replace with a fresh one.

Making a pumpkin container for flowers is easy!
Start by choosing a firm, fresh pumpkin. Spray the outside with a bleach solution (one teaspoon in a typical spray bottle filled with water) to clean the pumpkin.

Cut off the top to create an opening, scoop out the seeds and pulp, and spray the inside with your bleach/water solution. Line the interior of the pumpkin with either a plastic container/jug cut down so it doesn't show at the top, a jar or flower vase, or a layer of plastic wrap to prevent moisture from soaking into the pumpkin flesh. This not only keeps your arrangement tidy but also extends the life of the pumpkin.

Once lined, simply fill the cavity jug, jar or plastic with water, a few drops of bleach (to kill flowers bacteria and extend the life of the blooms) and fresh-cut flowers, or tuck in a potted mum, pansy, or other autumn bloom.

For a rustic, longer-lasting option, you can use the pumpkin as a cachepot. Instead of planting directly into the hollowed pumpkin, slip a small potted plant inside of another, larger pot that has no drain hole at the bottom. This way, you can water and care for the plant without damaging the pumpkin.

Surround the rim with moss, or decorative grasses to soften the edge and give it a lush look.

BirdCast provides real-time predictions of when and where birds are migrating

9/26/2025

This cool website showcases the spectacle of bird migration in real time

The BirdCast website is a fabulous tool that applies weather surveillance radar to gather information on the numbers, flight directions, speeds and altitudes of birds aloft in order to expand the understanding of migratory bird movement.

According to BirdCast.info, "...when BirdCast began, much like many conceptual frameworks in the early years of big data analysis and Internet and crowdsourcing, its potential and realities were far ahead of their time. But there was a strong belief and understanding that knowledge of migratory behavior would inspire birders and scientists as well as support decisions about conservation actions on the ground to mitigate numerous hazards birds face and to prevent deaths of millions of birds annually.

Accurate migration models could have broad appeal and even broader application, allowing researchers to understand behavioral aspects of migration, how migration timing and pathways respond to changing climate, and whether linkages exist between variation in migration timing and subsequent changes in population size.

Beginning in 2018 the BirdCast site began to feature migration forecasts that predicted how many birds would be aloft over the continental US and live migration maps that reported how many birds actually took flight."

See real-time data about birds that crossed Douglas County last night (est.), birds in flight (nightly average), flight direction and speed, expected nocturnal migrants, and more! Click here.

Thanks to BHGC member Julie Evans for telling us about this!

Help migrating birds by keeping your outdoor lights off from dusk until dawn to help nighttime migrating birds.

Safely clean your bird baths to eliminate algae and help migrating birds drink healthy

9/25/2025

Bird baths are a great source of water and bathing for birds and require more maintenance than you might realize

It is important to clean your birdbath(s) and fill them with fresh water regularly. This ensures better health for our avian friends.

To clean, follow three simple steps:
1. Dump old water completely.
2. Scrub, rinse, scrub, rinse well. Use only water.
2. Refill with fresh water.

Birdbath water should be replaced every two to four days until a cleaning is again needed.

Tips for Maintaining a Bird Bath

When choosing the bird bath's location, opt for a shady spot over one in direct sunlight; direct sun will cause water to evaporate quickly, leaving a small pool of stagnant water that will hasten bacterial and fungal growth.
Always dispose of old, dirty water before refilling with fresh water; avoid "topping off" a bird bath.
Place the bath away from bird feeders. If your outdoor space allows for it, position the bird bath in a place where falling leaves, needles, and other flora will not collect in the basin.
Add a wildlife-safe enzyme to the water to help reduce algae growth.

Tips credit: BHG

Drop a penny in the bird bath; copper helps to inhibit algae, which will keep the bath cleaner, longer. Look for a penny from 1982 or before, as pennies minted after 1982 are made primarily of zinc, not copper.

In praise of garden harvest baskets

9/23/2025

A harvest basket is the garden tool you didn't know you needed (but will love forever once you own one)

There is something deeply satisfying about the crunch of soft soil under your boots, the color in a tomato’s skin, the fragrance of basil just picked — and then filling a harvest basket with your garden's bounty.

A well-chosen harvest basket isn’t just a container. It’s a partner in gardening: humble, but full of possibility.

Here are some of the qualities that make harvest baskets the best companions for every gardener:

What Makes a Great Harvest Basket

Capacity & shape — Something that’s roomy enough to hold several produce items (like tomatoes, beans, herbs, carrots, onions, squash) but still manageable to carry. Too big, and it gets unwieldy; too shallow, and things spill over and out.
Good airflow/drainage — Mesh, slats, holes, or coated woven wire help prevent moisture buildup so your produce travels in good shape.
Gentle materials — Wicker, soft wood, linen/canvas/fabric linings, plastic with smooth edges — these help protect delicate items (berries, herbs, soft tomatoes).
Strong, comfortable handles — Harvesting means carrying weight; handles that create burden or pain defeat the joy. Swiveling arms, leather straps, and smooth and/or padded grips all help.
Easy to clean — Soil, dew, bugs: they all tag along. Materials that easily rinse clean or parts you can wash separately help maintain cleanliness.
Crafstmanship — You don't want to go cheap when selecting and purchasing a garden harvest basket. It should be built with strength, usability, beauty, and most importantly, longevity. A well-crafted harvest basket will last you for years and years of gardening chores, so choose one with strong handles and rims, bases that can carry weight, materials that resist rot, mildew, sun damage and insect damage, and joints or fastenings that avoid stress points or weak spots. Also, a well finished handle contributes to comfort and durability.

The Virtues of the Harvest Basket

Preserving quality of the harvest
A good basket keeps produce from bruising, crushing, or getting smeared. Ventilation helps avoid moisture accumulating, which means less spoilage.
Efficiency
Rather than making multiple trips to carry handfuls, a basket lets you gather more at once. Having one in the garden makes it convenient and ready when things are ripe.
Convenience & functionality
Some baskets double as colanders or allow rinsing in the basket itself, so you can harvest, rinse, and carry in one motion. That saves time, mess, and effort.
Beauty & connection
A well-made basket adds rustic charm to any garden. There’s something especially wonderful in using natural materials like wood or organic fibers, in objects that whisper of tradition and craft. It deepens the pleasure of the harvest.
Versatility
Beyond gathering vegetables or herbs, baskets can carry garden tools, picnic supplies, display seasonal produce indoors, become decor, or even serve at the market. That flexibility makes them more than just single-use tools.
Sustainability
Choosing materials that are long-lasting reduces waste. A good basket used season after season is more sustainable than disposable containers or plastic bags.

Good Basket Options
Here are some standout baskets in a mix of materials, styles & price points. (All are new, unless you ask for antiques/vintage.)

Fiskars Garden Harvest Basket (Plastic, Colander Sections) $21.99
Uncommon Goods Gardener’s Harvest Basket (Wood & Wire Hod) $55.00
Duluth Trading Co. Garden Harvester (Mesh‑Fabric) $39.95
Amish Wicker Garden Harvest Caddy $79.95
Maine Garden Hod Basket (Premier‑style Wooden Hod) $46.99
Epic Gardening Harvest Basket $46.95
Little Hill Homestead Folding Wire‑Bottom Hod (Wood & Wire) $65.00
The Basket Lady Wicker Gathering Basket $62.00

Pros/cons of the above mentioned harvest baskets
Fiskars Garden Harvest Basket (Plastic, Colander Sections) Plastic, segmented; has a wash/drain area + solid areas. Lightweight, easy to clean. Great for mixed harvests.Plastic can feel less “charming.” Might warp in hot sun.

Uncommon Goods Gardener’s Harvest Basket (Wood & Wire Hod) Beautiful wood & wire combo; decorative and functional. A piece you’d leave out for decor. Heavier; wire parts might snag delicate items. Needs care if gets very wet often.

Duluth Trading Co. Garden Harvester (Mesh‑Fabric) Soft mesh helps protect delicate produce; collapsible or flexible structure. Shoulder strap type. Good if you pick a lot of leafy greens/herbs. Mesh may stretch; might not drain as fast; careful with prickly items or large roots that could catch.

Amish Wicker Garden Harvest Caddy Gorgeous wicker craftsmanship; durable, looks great for display; roomy. Wicker is beautiful but harder to clean; heavier; care needed when storing (avoid moisture to prevent mold).

Maine Garden Hod Basket Traditional, solid wooden hod; long handle, very durable; loves veggies with weight. Bulky; wood can be heavy; may require occasional maintenance (sealing, etc.).

Epic Gardening Harvest Basket Brand reputation; functional design geared toward gardeners; good size for home gardens. Might cost more than simple models; check how it handles moisture & cleaning.

Little Hill Homestead Folding Wire‑Bottom Hod (Wood & Wire) Wire bottom allows rinsing; folding handle is useful; solid build; artisanal feel. Wood + wire junctions can weaken over time; handle hardware should be checked for durability.

The Basket Lady Wicker Gathering Basket Very rustic, large capacity, beautiful for display as well as work. Again, heavy; delicate items can get bruised if piled; less good for wet soil or heavy produce over long distances.

The story of a mysterious rose

9/23/2025

Rose in photo is not the "Peggy Martin Rose" but closely resembles it.

This rose survived Hurricane Katrina and spread throughout the U.S. It's origins are still unknown.

This is a fascinating story of a climbing rose that bursts with delicate pink flowers every spring.

The plant came to Peggy Martin's Louisiana garden 16 years before Hurricane Katrina devastated the Gulf Coast region in 2005. The plant's background is the subject of intense interest because when it was discovered it was thought to have been submerged under water for some time.

"Martin said it was the only one among 450 antique roses in her garden to have made it through the storm", according to this article about the rose (credit CNN).

Despite years spent researching and traveling in an effort to discover the rose's true origin, the plant's lineage remains a mystery.

This is one tough rose with a "miraculous feat of survival". Read the full story here.

“When you consider the body of rose as a whole entity, the rose is extremely tough. It has endured thousands of pests and thousands of… problems, and it still is considered man’s favorite flower".

Guide to Fall leaf peeping

9/18/2025

The best places (and times) to see Fall colors in our beautiful State

We are once again about to witness the arrival of Fall through the spectacular changing of colors in our deciduous trees, with the glorious aspens leading the way from their high elevation mountainsides.

Colors are expected to begin turning earlier this year, so it's good to remember that as elevation increases, trees' leaves rapidly transform and don't hold their vibrancy for long.

Generally speaking, elevations about 8,500 feet see changes beginning now (mid-September), descending from there over the course of three to four weeks, ending in the Front Range communities.

Optimal time to visit the mountains for spectacular Fall color this year will be now through late September/early October.

RMNP, Steamboat, Summit County: 915 - 9/29
Kenosha Pass, Georgetown: 9/18 - 9/26
Vail, Aspen, Crested Butte, Breckenridge: 9/22 - 10/4
Telluride, Ouray, Ridgway: 9/29 - 10/3
Durange, Pagosa Springs: 10/6 - 10/20
Denver, Colorado Springs: 10/13 - 10/27
Fruita, Grand Junction: 10/20 - 11/3

The Explore Fall website has an excellent map showing Colorado Fall foliage for 2025 with a color report and a peak timing report. Click here to see the map.

Perennials that do best when cut back in the Fall

9/9/2025

Reduce the potential for plant diseases and pests while making your garden look more tidy through Winter

Perennials that perform well in the Spring when cut back in the Fall include:

Bee Balm (leave for the birds unless the plants have powdery mildew, then prune hard and dispose of all debris in the trash - not compost)
Blazing Star (Liatris) - wait until it dies back naturally to give this plant more time to store energy for Winter
Catmint - prune to 4-6 inches above soil for a tidier look
Daylilies - cut back dead foliage after first frost has naturally died back on its own
Phlox - cut back so powdery mildew can't develop. See note about powdery mildew above
Hostas cut and dispose of decaying leaves and any flowers to ward of pests that lay eggs in Hosta foliage during Autumn
Irises - wait to prune until after first frost when leaves turn brown and die
Lavender - cut back immediately to a few inches above woody stems (don't cut back the woody stems)
Peonies - cut back to a few inches above ground now through first frost to prevent powdery mildew which these are susceptible to
Blanket Flower (Gaillardia) - deadhead spent blooms in late Fall and cut plants back before Winter to keep the plant healthy and energetic come Spring
Salvia - cut back to the ground and they may give you double the blooms come Spring. Cutting back also prevents them from developing woody stems.

Make sure your pruning shears are clean and blades are sharp for best results. With diseased plants, clean blades after each cut to ensure you don't spread the disease.

How to care for mums so they bloom all season long

9/4/2025

Fall mums are classic fall flowers that can be used for Fall decoration or planted in the garden as hardy perennials.

To keep garden mums (chrysanthemums) looking full and colorful all season, think of three main needs: water, sun, and deadheading.

Place mums where they’ll get 6+ hours of sunlight daily.

Mums have shallow roots and dry out quickly so consistent moisture is key. Water deeply whenever the top inch of soil feels dry.
Avoid overhead watering to reduce risk of mildew — water at the base.
If in containers, check moisture daily; potted mums often need water more often than garden-planted ones.
Well-draining soil is essential. Soggy soil = root rot.
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 2–3 weeks to encourage fresh growth and extended blooms.

Deadhead spent blooms regularly (this is important!). Snip off faded flowers just above a set of healthy leaves. This encourages new buds instead of seed formation.
TIP: If you buy mums in bud, they’ll naturally bloom longer than those already in full flower.

Containers: Mums dry out faster, so monitor water closely. Consider repotting into a slightly larger container with fresh potting soil if roots in the original container are crowded.
In-ground: Plant mums 1 inch deeper than they were in their pot. Add a 3–4 inch mulch layer to help conserve moisture and keep soil temperature even. Pinch off dead blooms but wait to prune old stems until Spring.
Deer don't like mums in general, but use a deer repellant like Liquid Fence or Deer Out if you don't want to risk it.

Bonus Tips

Rotate pots weekly if mums are on a porch or patio so they grow evenly.
Protect from strong winds and heavy rain that can topple or damage blooms.
If you want them to overwinter, plant them in the ground early enough (at least 4-6 weeks before frost) so roots establish. Even better, buy and plant mums in Spring for a gorgeous display of color in Fall. Otherwise, enjoy them only as seasonal color.

How to freeze your bumper crop of tomatoes

9/4/2025

Freezing tomatoes is one of the easiest ways to preserve them, and you don’t need to fuss with canning.

Here are the main methods for freezing tomatoes.

1. Whole Tomatoes (Quickest Method)

Wash and dry ripe tomatoes.
Remove the core and stems.
Place whole tomatoes on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid.
Transfer to freezer bags or containers, removing as much air as possible.
When thawed, the skins slip off easily. These are best for soups, sauces, and stews.

2. Chopped or Crushed Tomatoes

Wash, core, and chop tomatoes.
Spread on a baking sheet, freeze briefly to prevent clumping, then transfer to bags or containers.
Label with date.
Great for adding directly to recipes.

3. Tomato Purée or Sauce

Wash, core, and cut tomatoes.
Cook until soft, then blend into a purée or simmer into a sauce.
Cool, then portion into freezer-safe containers or jars (leave room for expansion).
Handy for quick pasta sauces or soups.

Tips

Always label bags/containers with date and contents.
Frozen tomatoes last up to 8 months for best quality.
Thawed tomatoes lose firmness — they’re perfect for cooking, not fresh eating.

How to Freeze Roasted Tomatoes
Freezing roasted tomatoes locks in their deep, sweet flavor — they’re a perfect shortcut for rich sauces and cozy winter meals.

1. Choose the right tomatoes

Plum, Roma, or cherry tomatoes work best since they’re meaty and low in water.

2. Prep

Wash and cut tomatoes in half (Roma/plum) or leave cherry tomatoes whole.
Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet, cut side up.

3. Season (optional but delicious)

Drizzle lightly with olive oil.
Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and herbs (thyme, rosemary, basil, or oregano).

4. Roast

Roast at 375°F (190°C) for 35–45 minutes, until edges caramelize and tomatoes shrink slightly.
For cherry tomatoes, reduce time to about 25–30 minutes.

5. Cool

Let tomatoes cool completely to room temperature.

6. Freeze

Place in a single layer on a baking sheet to flash-freeze.
Once solid, transfer to freezer bags or containers. Remove excess air before sealing.

7. Store & Use

Label and date bags.
Keeps up to 10–12 months.
Use straight from the freezer in pasta, soups, pizza toppings, or grain bowls.

Divide perennials now or wait?

9/3/2025

Rule of thumb: Spring blooming perennials divide in the Fall, late-summer and Fall bloomers divide in the Spring

Rule of thumb: Spring blooming perennials divide in the Fall, late-summer and Fall bloomers divide in the Spring.

If you are considering dividing your perennials, do it quickly as the best time to do so is six weeks before first frost (early to mid-October in our area).

Here's everything you need to know about dividing perennials, including how-tos, tips and the pros and cons of dividing.

And an article on how to cut back perennials the right way without risking next year's blooms click here.

Must know tips for dividing iris. https://www.bhg.com/how-to-divide-bearded-iris-11752178?hid=d13d19c359ece750cfb87ef7edc14d2cb4362c77&did=18476464-20250802&utm_campaign=bhg-grow-and-tell_newsletter&utm_source=bhg&utm_medium=email&utm_content=080225&lctg=d13d19c359ece750cfb87ef7edc14d2cb4362c77&lr_input=14d348920b34a351599e98e739857a13375cfb092b41fea1e3ea17665cb27191

Should you deadhead Coneflower spent blooms?

9/3/2025

Yes, but it depends on your goal.

If you've noticed 'spent' looking or faded flowers on your coneflower plants, you may be wondering if you should leave them on the plant or cut them off (deadhead).

Cutting the flowers after they've faded or died will encourage the plant to produce more blooms because the plant then has to produce more flowers in order to eventually go to seed and thus produce more flowers next year.

If you want more blooms: Deadhead (cut off spent flowers) through summer to encourage the plant to keep producing new blossoms. Snip the stem just above a set of healthy leaves or side shoots.

If you want wildlife benefits: Stop deadheading in late summer. The dried seed heads are loved by birds (especially goldfinches) and add winter interest to the garden.
If you want natural reseeding: Leaving some seed heads in place allows coneflowers to self-sow, giving you new plants next year.

To deadhead coneflowers, cut just above the first set of leaves. Then cut the plant back to keep it compact.

One approach is to deadhead early in the season for more flowers, then let the last round of blooms fade naturally for the birds and seeds.

Top-dress your lawn this Fall for a thicker, more even turf

9/3/2025

Top-dressing a lawn in the fall is a great way to refresh your turf and prepare it for winter and the Spring growing season.

Why Top-Dress in Fall

Improves Soil Quality: adding a thin layer of compost helps build healthier soil, improves drainage, and boosts nutrient content.
Get Stronger Grass: Fall is when cool-season grasses grow most actively, so top-dressing supports root development and recovery from summer stress.
Smooths out rough lawns: it fills in low spots, reducing uneven or low areas.
Supports overseeding: when combined with overseeding, top-dressing creates good seed-to-soil contact, helping new grass establish more easily.

How to Top-Dress

Mow and rake: cut the grass slightly shorter than usual and remove debris and rake off any thatch.
Choose your top-dress material: use screened compost, or a commercial lawn top-dressing product. Quality Landscape and Soil Products in Franktown will have a good recommendation for you. A good rich compost is best for improving fertility.
Spread thinly: apply about ¼–½ inch across the lawn using a shovel, broadcast spreader, or wheelbarrow.
Work it in: use the back of a rake or a leveling tool to brush the material into the grass, making sure the blades of grass are still visible.
Water lightly and regularly after top-dressing: this helps the material settle into the soil and reduces dust.
Keep off the lawn: after the process of top-dressing, your lawn is in a fragile state. Until the grass has bounced back, minimize any walking or lawnmowing on the lawn.

When done in Fall, top-dressing gives your lawn time to repair before winter and sets it up for a lush, healthy spring.

The time to divide peonies is early fall (i.e. right now)

9/3/2025

Dividing peonies is the best way to rejuvenate an old clump and (bonus!) get extra plants for free.

If you peony aren't flowering as prolifically as they used to, it might be time to consider dividing them.

Take note: timing and technique are key since they don’t like being disturbed.

When to Divide
The ideal time is early fall (September in Colorado and similar climates), after the foliage has begun to die back but before the ground freezes. This gives divisions time to establish roots before winter.

How to Divide Peonies

Cut back foliage to about 2–3 inches above the ground.
Dig carefully around the clump with a spading fork or shovel, lifting the entire root mass to avoid breaking thick roots.
Wash off soil to clearly see the “eyes” (buds) and root structure.
Divide with a sharp, clean knife: each division should have at least 3–5 eyes and a good portion of thick, healthy root.
Replant immediately in a sunny, well-drained spot. Plant divisions so the eyes sit 1–2 inches below the soil surface (too deep, and they won’t bloom).
Water well and mulch lightly for winter protection. Water weekly if it doesn't rain, and continue until the ground freezes.

Important to know: Peonies may take a year or two to settle in after division, so don’t worry if blooms are sparse at first — once established, they’ll flower reliably for decades.

Additional information click here.

What decisions gardeners regret most in their gardens

9/1/2025

Regrets are some of the best teachers when it comes to gardening.

Every gardener carries a few quiet regrets — plants that outgrew their welcome, trends that faded, corners that never quite turned out as imagined. But these missteps are not failures; they’re part of every gardener’s growth (excuse the pun), season after season.

The most common regret begins with impatience: planting trees and shrubs too close together, forgetting how large they’ll become. What looks sparse in spring soon crowds windows and chokes paths.

Others regret chasing trends — gravel yards that bake in the sun or perfectly color-matched borders that feel flat once the novelty wears off. In time, we learn that the best gardens are personal, not fashionable.

Beneath the surface lies another truth: the garden only grows as well as the soil allows. Many gardeners remember the year they skipped the compost or rushed to plant before improving the earth. Those roots never forget.
And then there’s water — too much, too little, inconsistent and never quite right. We learn to choose plants that suit our climate, not fight it.

Maintenance, too, becomes a kind of wisdom: the art of knowing when to prune, when to divide, and when to leave things be.

In the end, regrets are the compost of experience. Each mistake enriches the next season’s choices. A good garden doesn’t come from perfection — it comes from paying attention, giving yourself grace, learning as you go so you can grow right alongside the plants.

Here are the top regrets of gardeners:
Not starting small (know your limits and that of your garden)
Choosing high-maintenance plants (if it isn't native, it's gonna need extra care)
Planting invasive species (and the nightmare of getting rid of them after the fact)
Not protecting plants against wildlife (deer, rabbits, and squirrels anyone?)
Not considering a plant's mature size (overcrowded is never a good look)
Planting in ones (a hodgepodge of plants is visually chaotic and unattractive)
Not marking or labeling plants (or creating a map in a garden journal of what you planted where for future reference)

Next, read our Decisions Gardeners Never Regret companion article.

Decisions gardeners never regret

9/1/2025

Every gardener has a few choices they look back on with quiet satisfaction — decisions that grew into lasting rewards.

Unlike the flashy trends that fade, wise gardening decisions root deeply in both soil and spirit.

One of the best decisions is starting with the soil. The gardener who takes time to dig in compost, test pH, and nurture the earth beneath the plants rarely looks back. Healthy soil makes everything easier—it’s the invisible foundation for beauty, resilience, and abundance.

Few gardeners regret planting native species or those well-suited to their climate. These plants thrive without pampering, draw pollinators, and knit the garden into the surrounding landscape.

Likewise, planting for seasonal interest — early bulbs, midsummer bloomers, late asters, and grasses that glow in winter — keeps the garden alive in every month of the year, not just for one or two seasons.

Another wise choice is planting for wildlife. The sound of bees in June or goldfinches clinging to seed heads in January brings a sense of purpose beyond the ornamental. The gardener who leaves a little mess — some stems, some leaves — gains a living, breathing ecosystem.

And few ever regret creating places to pause: a bench tucked in shade, a stone path leading nowhere but to quiet. These are the spots where gardeners realize what their labor was for and can pause to appreciate all of it.

Gardens grow, change, and surprise us, but the choices made with patience, curiosity, and generosity — to the soil, to nature, to ourselves — are the ones that endure the most beautifully.

Farmer's Almanac forecasts a 'dramatic' winter

Expect a "classic winter wonderland" in Colorado during the 2025-2026 winter season, with very cold and dramatic temperature swings

How to use pumpkins as planters (and make them last)

Elevate the look of pumpkins by using them as flower 'vases'

BirdCast provides real-time predictions of when and where birds are migrating

This cool website showcases the spectacle of bird migration in real time

Safely clean your bird baths to eliminate algae and help migrating birds drink healthy

Bird baths are a great source of water and bathing for birds and require more maintenance than you might realize

In praise of garden harvest baskets

A harvest basket is the garden tool you didn't know you needed (but will love forever once you own one)

The story of a mysterious rose

This rose survived Hurricane Katrina and spread throughout the U.S. It's origins are still unknown.

Guide to Fall leaf peeping

The best places (and times) to see Fall colors in our beautiful State

Perennials that do best when cut back in the Fall

Reduce the potential for plant diseases and pests while making your garden look more tidy through Winter

How to care for mums so they bloom all season long

Fall mums are classic fall flowers that can be used for Fall decoration or planted in the garden as hardy perennials.

How to freeze your bumper crop of tomatoes

Freezing tomatoes is one of the easiest ways to preserve them, and you don’t need to fuss with canning.

Divide perennials now or wait?

Rule of thumb: Spring blooming perennials divide in the Fall, late-summer and Fall bloomers divide in the Spring

Should you deadhead Coneflower spent blooms?

Yes, but it depends on your goal.

Top-dress your lawn this Fall for a thicker, more even turf

Top-dressing a lawn in the fall is a great way to refresh your turf and prepare it for winter and the Spring growing season.

The time to divide peonies is early fall (i.e. right now)

Dividing peonies is the best way to rejuvenate an old clump and (bonus!) get extra plants for free.

What decisions gardeners regret most in their gardens

Regrets are some of the best teachers when it comes to gardening.

Decisions gardeners never regret

Every gardener has a few choices they look back on with quiet satisfaction — decisions that grew into lasting rewards.

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