Gardening Basics

Dig now for any planting you plan to do during the rainy season. Add organic matter to the planting soil and protect it from soaking winter rains. When the ground is saturated, it should not be dug or cultivated.

Drain and protect watering systems from freezing. Drain and store hoses. Put fertilizers and chemicals in dark, dry place, safe from curious children and animals.

Mow lawns before rainy season. Add lime if necessary to bring pH to neutral.

Kitchen and Orchard

Plant garlic, leeks and shallots. Tie up canes on berry plants. Prune fall bearing raspberries.

Dispose of all fruit tree leaves and fallen fruit. Paint the trunk of young trees with white latex paint with added neutral copper (2 tablespoons per gallon) to protect from sun damage, winter winds and fungus.

Spray dormant oil on fruit trees to help eliminate fungus and insect eggs. Spray lime sulfur on grape vines between now and February to prevent over-wintering fungus disease.

Ornamental Garden

The garden can still supply material for indoor decorations: aged hydrangea blossoms, yarrow and echinacea seed heads, rose hip sprays, color-tinged nandina and eponymous, barberry, holly and evergreen sprays.

Plant spring-blooming bulbs this month and next. The longer you wait, the greater the risk bulbs will begin to mold.

Move container plants to sheltered spots. All pots that absorb water, including some glazed pots, are subject to damage from freeze/thaw cycles.

Opportunities

Cranberries--these beautiful, nutritious gems provide a colorful accent and a delicious spark of flavor to meals. Learn to preserve and enjoy them safely with the OSU food education volunteers Thurs., Nov. 6, 7-9 p.m. at the Jackson County Extension Center, 569 Hanley Road, Central Point. A $10 materials fee is payable the day of the class. Reservations suggested by calling 541-776-7371

Hydroponic gardening tips. This class will cover the basics of hydroponics. Topics will include a brief history of hydroponics, the benefits of soil-less gardening, different types of hydroponic systems, common hydroponic crops, nutrient and pH management, organic pest control and indoor lighting. Thurs., Nov. 13, 7-9pm at the Jackson County Extension Center, 569 Hanley Road, Central Point. A $5 materials fee is payable the day of the class. Reservations suggested by calling 541-776-7371

Save money and the environment at the same time. North Mountain Park Nature Center is offering a “green cleaning” class. Learn to combine familiar ingredients to make five different products and get recipes for several more. Nov. 19, 1-3 pm, Pioneer Hall in Lithia Park, 73 Winburn Way, Ashland. Class fee $10.For info: 541-488-6606 or www.northmountainpark.org