Life of a Hanging Basket
Here’s a behind-the-scenes look at the life of a hanging basket at Down to Earth!
Preparing the Baskets
We begin by filling each hanging basket with high-quality potting mix, carefully chosen to provide the best aeration, drainage, and nutrients for optimal growth. To give the plants a great start, we also incorporate a slow-release fertilizer that ensures steady nourishment over time.
Receiving & Evaluating Plugs
Once our young plants (plugs) arrive at the greenhouse, we carefully unbox and evaluate them for quality. Each plug is inspected to ensure it is healthy and robust, as strong starting material is crucial to a successful basket.
Boosting Root Growth and Disease Resistance
To give our plants an extra edge, we dip them in a solution of beneficial organisms, including mycorrhizae, biofungicides, and bioinsecticides. This treatment promotes rapid rooting while also providing natural protection against unwanted insects and diseases. By fostering a healthy root system from the beginning, we set the stage for vigorous growth.
Planting with Care
Each plug is then planted according to our predetermined designs, ensuring a harmonious blend of colors, textures, and bloom times. Proper spacing is key, as it allows each plant room to grow without overcrowding. The right basket size is also selected to support the plants as they mature, preventing rootbound conditions and ensuring they have adequate room to thrive.
Natural Pest Control
To minimize the need for chemical treatments, we apply beneficial insects preventatively. These natural predators help control pests before they become a problem, promoting a healthier growing environment.
Encouraging Growth and Blooms
Once planted, the baskets are fitted with hangers and suspended in our greenhouse, where they can develop in ideal conditions. Regular watering and fertilization ensure the plants receive the nutrients they need for lush growth and abundant flowers. We use a balanced feeding regimen tailored to the needs of each plant variety.
Hand-Trimming for Fullness
To create the fullest, most beautiful baskets possible, we hand-trim each basket two to three times during the growing process. This encourages branching and denser growth, resulting in a final product that is full, lush, and ready to impress.
From Our Greenhouse to Your Home
By the time our hanging baskets are ready for sale, they have been carefully nurtured and tended with expert care. The combination of quality potting mix, beneficial treatments, precision planting, and meticulous maintenance ensures that each basket will flourish when it finds its new home.
From our greenhouse to your home, our baskets are grown with care to bring vibrant color and lush beauty throughout spring and summer, ensuring your outdoor spaces stay stunning all season long!
Why Live Plants Make the Best Presents
When it comes to gift-giving, we often reach for the tried and true—flowers, chocolates, or beautifully wrapped packages. But have you ever considered giving the gift of a live plant? At Down to Earth, we believe that living plants are more than just gifts; they are lasting expressions of care, growth, and connection. Here’s why a thriving plant makes for the perfect present compared to traditional gifts or even cut flower bouquets.
Long-Lasting Beauty
Unlike a bouquet that will wilt within a week, a live plant continues to grow and flourish, providing beauty and joy for months or even years. Whether it’s a lush pothos, a vibrant orchid, or a cheerful peace lily, plants remain a lasting reminder of your thoughtful gesture.
A Symbol of Growth and Renewal
Plants represent life, renewal, and personal growth. Gifting a plant to a loved one can symbolize encouragement, new beginnings, or support during life’s transitions. It’s a meaningful way to say, “I’m thinking of you” in a way that endures.
A Natural Mood Booster
Studies have shown that having plants in our spaces can reduce stress, boost mood, and improve concentration. Unlike other gifts that may fade into the background, a thriving plant brightens up any space and offers daily benefits!.
A Gift for Every Skill Level
Worried that your recipient doesn’t have a green thumb? No problem! There’s a plant for everyone, from low-maintenance succulents and ZZ plants to more care-intensive but rewarding orchids. We’re here to help you find the perfect match.
Visit Us and Find the Perfect Plant Gift
Looking for the perfect plant for a loved one—or even yourself? Stop by Down to Earth and explore our stunning flowering displays and vast selection of houseplants for all experience levels. Whether you’re shopping for a seasoned plant lover or a first-time plant parent, we have something special waiting for you.
Come see the beauty of plants in person and give a gift that keeps on growing!
Winter Bird Feeding: Why Suet is a Must-Have
As winter sets in across Wisconsin, backyard birds face a tough challenge—finding enough food to sustain them through the frigid temperatures and snow-covered landscapes. One of the best ways you can help them thrive is by offering suet, a high-energy food that provides essential fats and nutrients birds need during the colder months.
Why Suet?
Suet is a dense, calorie-rich food made from rendered animal fat. It’s particularly beneficial in winter because it offers the high-energy fuel birds require to maintain their body heat. Many birds that remain in Wisconsin throughout the winter, such as woodpeckers, chickadees, nuthatches, and jays, rely on suet when natural food sources become scarce.
Types of Suet and How to Offer It
Suet comes in a variety of forms, including cakes, balls, and even plugs designed to fit into specialized feeders. Some suet blends contain additional ingredients like nuts, berries, and seeds to attract a wider variety of birds. Here are a few suet feeding tips:
Use a Suet Feeder: Cage-style suet feeders allow birds to cling while feeding, mimicking their natural behavior. You can also find suet log feeders with pre-drilled holes for suet plugs.
Location Matters: Hang your suet feeder near trees or shrubs to provide birds with shelter and protection from predators.
Keep it Fresh: In extremely cold temperatures, suet stays fresh for a long time, but it’s always a good idea to check for mold or spoilage if there’s a warm spell.
Prevent Starlings and Grackles: If larger, aggressive birds are hogging the suet, consider an upside-down suet feeder, which is designed to favor clinging birds like woodpeckers and nuthatches.
Birds You’ll Attract with Suet
Offering suet in winter can bring a variety of beautiful birds to your backyard, including:
Downy and Hairy Woodpeckers – Small, agile, and frequent suet visitors.
Red-bellied Woodpeckers – Striking birds with a bright red cap and a fondness for suet.
Black-capped Chickadees – Tiny, energetic birds that love both suet and seeds.
White-breasted Nuthatches – Often seen moving headfirst down trees, these birds readily take to suet.
Blue Jays – These bold, vocal birds appreciate a suet cake mixed with peanuts.
Make Your Backyard a Winter Sanctuary
By providing suet along with other bird-friendly foods like black oil sunflower seeds, you’ll create a haven for winter birds and enjoy the beauty of nature right outside your window. In addition to food, consider offering a heated birdbath for fresh water and providing shelter with birdhouses or natural plant cover.
Shop In-Store for the Best Bird Feeding Supplies
If you’re ready to start feeding birds this winter, we have everything you need! From high-quality suet cakes to durable suet feeders, our in-store selection is curated to help you attract and support local bird species. Visit us today to stock up on winter bird feeding essentials and make this season a feast for your feathered friends!
Winter Houseplant Care: Tips to Keep Your Green Friends Thriving!
Did you know your houseplant friends need different care in the winter? With less sunlight during the season, most house plants photosynthesize less, leading to slower growth. Now is the perfect time to figure out how to nurture and care for your plants during the colder months. Let’s dive in!
Are Your Houseplants Still Growing?
The first step to winter care is assessing your plants. Take a close look for new growth or emerging leaves!
If your plants are growing: You can still fertilize during the winter! Just make sure to adjust your approach (more on this below).
If your plants have slowed or stopped growing: It’s okay to pause fertilizing. Winter can be a time for your plants to flush out built-up minerals and salts from previous feedings, giving them a fresh start for spring.
Winter Fertilizing Tips
Fertilizing in winter differs from the active growing months. If your plants are still showing growth:
Dilute your fertilizer to half-strength. With less sunlight and slower photosynthesis, they don’t need as much nutrition.
Feed your plants 1-2 times a month.
We love using Sustane Flourish Organic Houseplant Fertilizer for a gentle nutrient boost. Sustane is the product we use on our Collector Plant Collection in the greenhouse! Pair this with a soil conditioner like any products from our Neptune’s Harvest line to help your plants absorb nutrients more efficiently—a fantastic addition anytime, especially in winter.
For orchids that actively grow and bloom during winter, try Jack’s All-Purpose Active Feed and Bloom-Boosting Orchid Feed to support their specific needs.
Boosting Winter Light
Short winter days can leave your plants craving more light. Consider investing in grow lights to keep them happy! We offer a variety of options, including bulbs and easy-to-use light set-ups. Adding extra light ensures your plants can photosynthesize properly, even during low-light winters.
Dust Those Leaves!
Did you know that a layer of dust on your plant’s leaves can block light and reduce photosynthesis? Take time to wipe down your plant’s leaves with a damp cloth. This simple task can make a big difference in their overall health.
Avoid Winter Repotting
Even if your plant shows some growth, winter is not the ideal time to repot. Repotting can stress plants, and it’s better to wait until spring when they’re ready to bounce back. Instead, use this time to plan for a big repotting session in April when your plants will be eager to stretch their roots.
Plan for Spring, Care for Winter
Thoughtful care during the winter months sets the stage for a thriving spring! With these tips, your houseplants can stay happy and healthy all winter long. Remember, every little effort you make for them now will pay off when the growing season returns. Happy winter plant care!
How to Effectively Plan Your Vegetable Garden
It’s the time of year when gardeners start planning this year’s vegetable garden! Dreaming of an expansion? Adding in exciting new varieties? Trying something for the first time this year? Now is the time to start planning your layout so when spring arrives, you are ready to put your plan into action!
Step 1. Evaluate Your Space
The first step is to consider the space you have available to plant your vegetable garden. Considerations include lighting throughout the day, land available, and your access to water (you will thank yourself later when it is in the middle of hot July)! And don’t forget to set a date or reminder to collect a soil sample to send in for a soil test.
Step 2. Choosing Your Varieties
Now that your location has been selected, it is time to select your plant varieties! As fun as it is to pick the most unique, bizarre plant options, be sure to evaluate what you and your family will actually eat and use! Having a plan for each of your hand-selected varieties will not only eliminate waste at the end of the season, but it will also help you stay devoted and passionate about your vegetable garden!
Another thing to consider is harvest time. Make it easier on yourself by selecting plant varieties that will be ready to pick at different times so that you are not harvesting, handling, and preserving your entire garden in the same week. You can find this information on the back of most seed packets or by asking our staff!
Step 3. Garden Layout
Now it is time to lay out your garden plan on paper! Draw the dimensions of your desired space and begin to lay out where you would like to position each plant variety. You want to ensure that you group shorter crops together and taller crops by each other as well. This prevents tall crops blocking the light to shorter crops. If you are planting fruits and veggies with trailing foliage, plan your layout to prevent their vines from choking neighboring plants. You will want to keep like-growth pattern plants together to ensure happy plants and effective co-mingling!
Keep in mind that varieties being planted in smaller quantities should be kept together in their own space, leaving rows for larger production. This helps ease care through the season for smaller crops, keeping them from being overpowered by other plants or forgotten in the deep sea of green leaves in the middle of your garden space! Companion planting is also an important concept to consider in your layout - not all plants like to be planted next to one another, yet some thrive planted in close proximity!
Succession planting: Some veggies, such as leaf lettuce, are able to be harvested + planted multiple times in the season. You will want to plant these varieties in an easily accessible area so that you won’t disturb the surrounding plants. We recommend keeping them at the edge of your garden if you plan to replant multiple times in the year.
Additional tips + tricks! Try planting Marigolds around the border of your garden to help with pest control! Or try flowers to create a beautiful, eye-catching garden border that will attract all the pollinators to your garden!
Alternative Garden Options
If you don’t have the space (or time!) to do an in-ground vegetable garden, you can always do an alternative style such as a patio garden or raised beds! We offer a variety of compact vegetable options that will not grow as large as their traditional counterparts. We carry compact varieties of beans, tomatoes, cucumbers, and a few different peppers! Most herbs are also a naturally compact option for smaller areas. Don’t let space restrictions deter you from starting your own vegetable garden!
Make your gardening dreams come true with this practical step-by-step guide! If you are looking for some extra assistance in your garden planning, we would love to help! Stop in to see all of our gardening tools and plants, and to talk with one of our expert staff. We can guide you in planning this year’s vegetable garden - or consider joining us for our next Herb and Veggie 101 class to learn more about vegetable gardening!
The Essential Guide to Winter Tree Trimming
Winter is the perfect time to care for your trees and set them up for a healthy growing season ahead. With the leaves gone, it's easier to see the tree's structure, making it ideal for trimming and pruning. Let’s dive into the benefits of winter tree trimming, which tree varieties benefit most, and how to approach this important task.
Why Trim Trees in Winter?
Trimming trees during their dormant season (late fall through early spring) minimizes stress on the tree and reduces the risk of disease or pest infestations. The cold weather also ensures that cuts heal more effectively, giving your tree a head start when spring arrives.
Tree Varieties That Should Be Trimmed in Winter
Certain tree species thrive when pruned during the winter months. These include:
Deciduous Trees: Oaks, maples, crabapples, and birches benefit from winter pruning to prevent sap loss and disease.
Fruit Trees: Apple, pear, and cherry trees should be pruned to encourage better fruit production and healthier growth.
Shrubs and Hedges: Shrubs like hydrangeas or ornamental hedges can also be trimmed to maintain their shape and promote growth.
Avoid pruning spring-blooming trees or shrubs like lilacs, rhododendrons, or magnolias in winter, as this could reduce their blooms.
What to Look For While Trimming
When trimming your trees, focus on the following:
Dead or Diseased Branches: Remove any branches that are clearly damaged, discolored, or brittle.
Crossing or Rubbing Branches: Trim branches that are growing into each other to prevent damage and improve airflow.
Overgrowth: Thin out overly dense areas to allow sunlight and air to penetrate.
Shape and Balance: Maintain the tree’s natural shape by evenly trimming the crown and removing awkward or unbalanced growth.
Essential Tools for Tree Trimming
To trim your trees safely and effectively, you'll need:
Pruning Shears: For small branches and precise cuts.
Loppers: For medium-sized branches.
Hand Saw: For larger branches or thicker growth.
Pole Pruner: For hard-to-reach branches.
Protective Gear: Gloves, safety glasses, and a sturdy ladder for tall trees.
Basic Instructions for Winter Trimming
Start by inspecting the tree for dead, diseased, or damaged branches.
Use sharp, clean tools to make cuts at a 45-degree angle, close to the main branch or trunk.
Remove any small, weak branches growing near the base of the tree.
Step back periodically to assess the tree’s shape and balance as you trim.
We’re Here to Help!
Winter tree trimming can be a big task, but you don’t have to tackle it alone. Our expert team provides winter tree trimming services for your small-medium trees (under 20’) to keep your trees healthy, beautiful, and ready for spring.
Contact us today to schedule your winter tree trimming service and ensure your trees are in their best shape for the new season!
There is No Place Like Local for the Holidays!
When it comes to the holiday season, there truly is no place like local. As the air fills with the scent of pine, the streets twinkle with festive lights, and everyone gears up for holiday celebrations, there’s something special about turning to your local businesses and communities to make the season bright. Here’s why going local for the holidays creates unforgettable memories, spreads joy, and strengthens the spirit of the season.
Personal Touch in Every Gift
Local shops are the heart of the holiday gift-giving experience and items purchased often come with a story. Whether it's handcrafted pottery, custom made jewelry, or locally sourced treats, these thoughtful finds carry the warmth and creativity of your community. Shopping local means you’re not just giving a gift but sharing a piece of your town’s unique charm.
Festive Experiences Close to Home
Winter Farmers Markets, Artist Markets, and other winter events at Down to Earth give you opportunities to explore an expanded variety of locally made products! These events foster a sense of togetherness and give you the perfect platform to purchase gifts for friends and family while making a difference in our community.
Supporting Your Neighbors
When you shop at local businesses, you’re not just buying a product; you’re supporting the dreams of your neighbors. Small business owners work tirelessly to bring something special to their communities, and every purchase helps them thrive. Choosing local over big-box stores ensures that your dollars stay in the community, boosting the local economy and spreading holiday cheer where it matters most.
One-of-a-Kind Finds
Big-name stores may have flashy sales, but they can’t compete with the unique treasures you’ll find at local shops. Whether it’s a limited-edition item, an artisanal creation, or a quirky piece that perfectly fits your loved one’s personality, local businesses offer an endless array of distinctive options. These special touches make every gift feel more personal and meaningful.
This holiday season, celebrate the magic of your community by supporting local. Discover one-of-a-kind gifting for plant-lovers, food connoisseurs, fashionistas, and more when you shop local at the Shops of Down to Earth! There is truly no place like local for the holidays.
Styling Fresh Greens
Bring the beauty of nature right to your doorstep by styling fresh greens outside your home! Whether it's a vibrant wreath on your front door, cascading garlands along your porch railing, or potted arrangements bursting with lush foliage, incorporating fresh greenery is a simple yet stunning way to elevate your outdoor space. You will love that these pieces can decorate your home all winter long!
How to Style Garlands
Styling fresh garland outdoors is a wonderful way to add a natural, elegant touch to your home’s exterior. Start by draping the garland along your porch railing, staircase, or doorway to create a welcoming frame.
Secure it with sturdy hooks, floral wire, or decorative ribbons for both functionality and flair. For a festive look, weave in twinkling string lights or tuck in seasonal accents like pinecones or berries!
How to Style Wreaths
A fresh wreath is the perfect way to add a pop of greenery and personality to your entryway! Start by choosing a wreath that complements the overall aesthetic of your home—classic evergreen for a traditional look or bold holiday colors for a festive touch. Hang your wreath on your front door using a sturdy wreath hanger or a decorative ribbon looped over the top.
Grab one for all of your exterior doors, including your main door, garage doors, or even shed doors to create an instant upgrade for your home!
How to Style Porch Pots
Transform your entryway into a cohesive and inviting space with winter porch pots! Whether you choose to display a pot on either side of your entry door or spice things up with a cluster of pots, there are so many possibilities! When grouping your pots, be sure to use varying heights together for a more dynamic, layered look. Arrange multiple pots, using the tallest as the anchor piece, then surround it with smaller pots to create a visually appealing flow.
To tie everything together, incorporate outdoor elements like lanterns, a doormat, or garlands that match the pots. Lighting is another key component; fairy lights woven through greenery or placed nearby can highlight your pots and create a warm, welcoming glow.
Front Porch Style Inspo
Styling your front porch with fresh greens can be easy! Make a statement while keeping it simple on your front step!
Materials:
- 1 wreath
- 2 porch pots
Quickly + easily arrange your pieces for the perfect all-winter-long look!
NOTE: Add some colorful Christmas bling to your wreath or porch pots that can easily be switched out after the holidays!
Be sure to shop our seasonal selection of porch pots, garland, centerpieces, wreaths + more! We also offer workshops to make your own fresh wreaths + porch pots in November + December! This is a great way to create your own custom combo for your home!
Don’t forget your Wilt-Stop!
to help keep your fresh greens hydrated + to prevent winter burn! Find it in our greenhouses!
Create a Stunning Winter Porch Pot: A Step-by-Step Guide
It is time to embrace the changing season by adding a festive touch to your front porch. A winter porch pot is a great way to keep your home looking lively, even when flowers are out of season! This easy DIY project brings natural beauty to your space and adds a warm welcome for guests. Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating your own winter porch pot masterpiece.
1. Fill the Container with Soil
Start by selecting a sturdy pot that can handle the colder winter temperatures like a large plastic or resin planter, which tends to resist cracking in cold weather. Fill your container with fresh potting soil about three-quarters of the way full. This soil base will help anchor the greens and give them stability throughout the season.
2. Water in the Soil
Before adding any greens, give the soil a good watering. Moist soil will freeze in colder weather, which helps secure the branches and keeps them from shifting around. A well-moistened base will also keep the greens hydrated, so they stay fresh and vibrant longer.
3. Trim the Ends of the Greens
Gather your evergreen boughs and other greens, such as spruce, pine, or cedar branches. Trim the ends at a slight angle with sharp pruning shears. This not only helps the greens absorb water more effectively but also makes them easier to insert into the soil.
4. Start with a Spruce Top for Height
Begin by placing your tallest piece, your Spruce Top, in the center of the container. The spruce top will serve as the main focal point and provide height and structure. Make sure it's firmly embedded in the soil, as it will anchor the rest of your arrangement.
5. Fill in with Accent Greens and Other Leafy Foliage
Now that the central piece is in place, add accent greens to fill out the arrangement. Pine, cedar, and juniper are perfect choices because they add texture and depth. Arrange these branches around the spruce top, varying their lengths and layering them to create a full look. Don’t be afraid to mix in other natural elements, like red dogwood, eucalyptus, or magnolia to add dimension and contrast.
6. Decorate with "Bling"
Add decorative elements to personalize your porch pot. Pinecones, berry sprigs, or even ornamental branches with a dusting of glitter can create a festive feel. You might also consider adding holiday-themed ornaments, small LED lights, or ribbon for an extra pop of color and sparkle. These decorative touches bring a winter wonderland look to your pot.
7. Water Your Finished Porch Pot
Finally, give your completed porch pot one last watering. This will help settle everything into place and keep the greens fresh. If the temperature is below freezing, the water will form ice, which will keep the branches anchored and hydrated.
Tips for a Beautiful Winter Porch Pot
Until the pot freezes, keeping the soil moist/watering as needed is necessary to prevent needles from dropping.
Mix Textures: Using a variety of evergreens creates interest and adds a dynamic feel to your pot.
Play with Height: Taller greens in the center and shorter branches along the sides create a balanced look.
Seasonal Bling: Small touches like fairy lights or colorful ornaments are an easy way to add a festive flair.
Be sure to create a wreath to match your beautiful new porch pot!
Don’t forget your Wilt-Stop! This is the perfect product to use to keep your greens hydrated + healthy!
With these simple steps, you’ll have a gorgeous winter porch pot that brightens your entryway all season long. Enjoy your stunning creation, and have fun bringing winter’s beauty to your doorstep!
You Asked, We Answer: Fall Hydrangea Pruning
One of the most common questions we get asked out in the yard in the fall is “What do I do to prepare my Hydrangea for winter?” We are here to take away the guesswork on your Hydrangea care! Below, you will find the information for pruning Panicle Hydrangeas.
To Prune or Not to Prune…
There are many different opinions out there for trimming, including whether you should trim your Hydrangea in the fall or spring. Although both options get the job done, we do recommend pruning in the fall because of our harsh winters. If we receive a heavy snow (which we all know we will!), those large flowers can collect the snow, causing preventable branch breaking. Trim the dried florals off of your bush or tree to help protect it during the harsh winter snow!
Repurposing your flowers: We are all about repurposing! When you trim your hydrangeas, save the dried florals for a beautiful addition to your home decor! Hydrangeas add a beautiful texture and are easy to style!
Shaping
As a rule of thumb, we recommend trimming no more than ⅓ of your plant. This will help encourage it to push new growth in the spring, while still shaping it! For Hydrangea trees, attempt to create a V-Shape design to keep its natural growth pattern. If there is a “leggy” branch, feel free to trim it down close to the base.
Pruners & Disinfectant
Don’t forget to disinfect your pruners! As undesirable as this step may be, it is especially important when you are switching between multiple shrub or tree types to prevent any infection or disease transfer. Grab a bucket of soapy water or rubbing alcohol to dip your pruners in between plant varieties.
The most important tool for your fall pruning IS your pruners! Make sure you have a sharp, high-quality option by picking up a new pair from our Garden Shop! If you have fall pruning questions, our yard staff is happy to help!
Winter Garden Prep
As the vibrant colors of fall emerge and the air turns crisp, it's time to shift our focus to garden preparation for the colder months. Whether you’re tending to perennials, shrubs, trees, or vegetable gardens, there are essential tips to help ensure your plants thrive all winter long.
Hydration is Key
Even as temperatures drop, it’s crucial to continue watering your perennials, trees, and shrubs until the ground is frozen. Hydration is key for these plants to build resilience against winter stress. Consistent watering encourages strong root systems, ensuring they are well-prepared for the chill ahead.
Mulching
Keep your plants cozy + insulated! Mulching is a fantastic way to insulate your garden. Whether you choose to mulch in the fall or spring, it’s easy to do and offers a range of benefits. We have both bagged and bulk mulch available to help cover landscape beds, trees, and shrubs. If you notice that your mulch layer is thin this season, consider top dressing your mulch. A thicker layer helps eliminate the freeze-thaw cycles that can damage roots and soil structure.
Pruning and Cutting Back
Fall is a great time to cut back certain perennials, helping to prepare them for a healthier spring. Whether you choose to do this in the fall or wait until spring, trimming back can encourage new growth and keep your garden looking tidy.
October is the ideal time to trim varieties such as hydrangeas, ninebark, and other varieties that bloom in the summer or fall. Be mindful, however, to avoid trimming azaleas, rhododendrons, and lilacs in the fall, as they set their buds for next season during this time.
Clearing Out Vegetable Gardens
When it comes to your vegetable garden, it's essential to completely clear out any old plant debris. This helps prevent pests and diseases from lingering over the winter. After cleaning, add a layer of untreated leaves or grass clippings to enrich your soil with organic matter. It’s best not to till the soil at this time of year, as it can disrupt beneficial microorganisms.
Fall Bulb Planting
As you clean up your perennials, make room to plant fall bulbs like tulips and garlic! Remove any remaining plant debris to create a tidy planting area. A fresh layer of mulch over your bulbs will provide insulation and help retain moisture through the colder months. Plant your fall flower bulbs now and enjoy a beautiful, colorful garden in the spring!
Fall Tree Plantings
There are so many advantages to planting your trees in the fall! Not only can you save on trees at Down to Earth during our fall sales, you also can benefit from the seasonal shift! Planting in the fall allows for your tree to take full advantage of all the moisture brought on by the spring thaw. This (and other factors) can allow your tree to be a “season ahead” and more mature than if you were to plant in the spring.
Edging Your Beds
Fall is also a fantastic time to re-edge your garden beds. Clean up the edges to create a crisp, defined look that enhances your landscape's overall appeal. A well-maintained edge not only looks great but also helps prevent grass and weeds from encroaching on your garden beds.
Stock Up on Garden Essentials
To help with all these tasks, don’t forget to visit our garden shop! We have a selection of pruners, gloves, kneelers, and mulch to make your gardening experience more enjoyable and efficient.With a little effort now, you can set the stage for a beautiful and healthy garden next spring!
Chill Out! ❄️ Frost Protection + Season Extenders!
As the seasons change, it’s important to keep an eye on the nightly temperatures + watch out for snow + frost! Protect your planters, hydrangeas, evergreens, and veggie gardens to prolong harvest time + protect them from the midwest elements!
Burlap
Burlap is a great natural way to protect against frost and safeguard your evergreens and shrubs during harsh Midwest winters!
Great for all-winter evergreen and shrub protection
Protects from heavy snowfalls, salt, and winds
Versatile design
Easy to store
Wilt Stop
Wilt Stop is a must-have product to preserve your cut greens, wreaths, + even your live evergreens!
Prevents winter burn
Reduces moisture loss
Protects needles
Easy to use design
Whether you want to extend the life or your Christmas tree, or protect your live evergreens, this product is for you!
Plant Bells
Protective plastic plant bells are a fantastic way to shield your garden from frost damage! These handy covers trap heat and create a microclimate around your plants, helping to keep them cozy during chilly nights. There are so many benefits:
Easy to use
Reusable
Promotes faster growth
Protects plants from bugs, birds, and pests
With plant bells in your gardening toolkit, you can extend your growing season and ensure your plants thrive even in cooler weather!
Fleece Plant Jackets
Made from soft, breathable material, these jackets provide insulation while allowing moisture and sunlight to penetrate. They are lightweight and easy to slip on and off, ensuring your plants stay cozy during frosty nights without sacrificing their health.
Protects from frost and pests
Green fern-patterned material helps it blend in
Allows sunlight, air, and moisture to filter through
Grow Tunnel
Similar to a mini greenhouse, this option is great for frost protection and enhanced plant growth!
Creates a humid environment (warms soil)
Many sizes available
Accordion-style design (easy to use!)
Easy to store
Our Garden Shop is stocked with the products that will work best in your gardens! Come discover what we have to offer!
Revitalize Your Lawn
The Benefits of Overseeding in the Fall
As the leaves begin to change + the air turns crisp, you might be wondering how to prepare your lawn for the upcoming seasons. One of the best practices to consider is overseeding—an effective way to enhance the health and appearance of your lawn. So, why is fall the ideal time for overseeding?
1. Optimal Soil Temperatures
During fall, soil temperatures are still warm, creating an ideal environment for quick germination. This means that the seeds you spread have a better chance of sprouting and becoming established before the winter chill sets in.
2. Perfect Weather Conditions
The combination of warm days and cooler nights in fall provides a fantastic growing environment for grass.
3. Time for Root Development
One of the key advantages of overseeding in fall is that it gives the new grass plenty of time to establish itself. By the time winter arrives, your newly seeded areas will have developed good roots, setting the stage for a vibrant lawn come spring.
While fall is a great time for overseeding, it’s important to keep an eye on the weather. Fall can often be dry, which may mean your newly seeded areas need extra care. Ensure that the seeds are getting plenty of water to promote healthy growth. This may require regular watering, especially during dry spells.
If your lawn has bare patches or areas that look less than lush, fall overseeding is the perfect opportunity to address these issues. By filling in these gaps, you can create a more uniform and attractive lawn.
Perhaps the most exciting benefit of overseeding in the fall is the payoff you’ll see in spring. By investing a little time now, you can enjoy a thicker, greener lawn when the weather warms up. There’s nothing quite like stepping out onto a lush lawn after the long winter! Prep your lawn by visiting our Garden Shop to find quality grass seed + get started on your lawn care journey!
Cover Crops for Your Garden!
Boost Soil Health + Garden Resilience with These End-of-Season Tips
Are your gardens starting to look a little empty + barren after the fall harvest? It is time to clean out the old vegetation + establish a beautiful cover crop that has many benefits for your soil + future gardens. But first, let’s address the elephant in the room (or garden)…What IS a cover crop?
Planting cover crops is a process used to benefit the soil, rather than planting for harvest. These crops are planted after the growing season or in extra garden spaces that aren’t being used. Some benefits to these types of crops include:
Preventing soil erosion
Building soil’s organic matter
Creating roots that feed the microbes in the soil through winter
Cover crops are available in many varieties depending upon your goal. Winter Rye, Buckwheat, Peas + Oats, and Clover will help improve the soil so your plants thrive year after year!
The best time to plant your cover crops is in the fall after harvest, when your garden beds are cleared up + free of debris. Overwinter these crops in your gardens! Once spring hits, you can till that cover crop right back into the soil! When they are put back into the soil, they decompose + contribute organic matter, enhancing soil structure and fertility.
You don’t need to be an expert gardener to transform your end-of-season garden beds! Pick up the tools + seed from our Down to Earth garden shop to get started! Have more questions? Our expert staff is ready to help!
Moving Your Houseplants Indoors
Creating a Smooth + Pest-Free Season Transition
Your houseplants have basked in the summer’s heat + sun, but winter is just around the corner! Now what? While it might seem as easy as moving them from the porch to their indoor spot, there’s one crucial step you shouldn’t skip: protecting them from pests!
When the outside temperature starts consistently dipping below 55 degrees fahrenheit, it’s time to pull your plants indoors. Let’s explore a few options for giving your plants a clean start + find the best fit for you!
Systemic:
Plants soaks this up through their roots. Sprinkle granules or liquid into soil.
Fights wide variety of pests
Helps both fight + prevent infestations
Note: Always read the active ingredient! Some systemics contain imidacloprid, an ingredient that does NOT fight Spider Mites!
Insecticidal Sprays:
Spray right onto foliage to combat any current issues!
Insecticidal Soap + Eight are great options! (available in our P.H.D. at Down to Earth)
Microfiber Gloves:
Perfect for clearing pests off foliage
Easy way to clean + help prevent any large infestations
With the right care and protection, your green friends will stay happy + healthy until spring arrives! Find all these products + the expert help you need when you stop out to Down to Earth!
How to Care for Your Mums
Because They Need More Than Just a Good Coffee and a Compliment!
‘Tis the season for mums, corn stalks, and pumpkins to be beautifully arranged on your front stoop. Unlike the other elements of your decor, however, mums are living plants that require a bit of attention to maintain their beauty throughout the fall.
Overall, Mums do best with part sun exposure, as sunlight helps speed up their bloom cycle, resulting in vibrant flowers. Here’s our secret to success: if you want your mums to bloom faster, place them in full sun. Conversely, if you wish to slow down the blooming process + extend their lifespan, opt for a shadier location. Don’t forget to deadhead the flowers as needed to encourage continued growth + blooming!
Mums typically require daily watering, with morning being the best time to do so, as this allows them to absorb moisture throughout the day. To promote even growth, water your mums from the base, underneath the foliage. Top-watering can lead to splitting or create a worn watering hole, detracting from their manicured round shape.
And that’s it! Now, sit back and enjoy your annual mums!
While you’re at it, here are some practical fall decorating ideas with your mums:
Slip a fall mum into an empty pot or bushel basket. Need height? Place an upside-down pot under the mum pot to give it a lift!
Group mums with porch pots, pumpkins, straw bales, + corn stalks to create a beautiful fall collection.
Utilize a variety of sizes + colors—there are so many choices!
How to Trim Your Evergreens
We love evergreens for so many reasons, including year-round beauty, providing a safe place for birds to nest, and their instant privacy! Did you know that caring for them is actually quite simple? Learn how to efficiently trim your evergreens while you prep your yard for winter!
At Down to Earth, we sell DOZENS of evergreen varieties in every shape + size to fit your needs! Speaking of shape…did you know that trimming your evergreens can promote healthy growth + keep them looking snazzy? August is the ideal time to prune and shape your evergreens, giving them efficient time to callus before the cold midwest winter blows in! Those cute spiral + pom pom evergreens don't just grow that way - they take just a little bit of TLC.
SIMPLE STEPS...
Create a rough mental plan of how you would like the finished product to look
Grab your hedge shears + start shaping your evergreen as you like! (Need a new pair of shears? Visit our Garden Shop for options!)
We recommend following the natural shape of your evergreen (dependant upon the variety)
Be sure to view it from all angles to ensure an even trim
Start with small, light cuts. You can always go back for more, but you can’t glue to needles/foliage back on 😉
3. Keep going until you reach the desired shape
4. Stand back + admire your work!
After the first few frosts, we suggest applying Wilt Stop, an awesome product that helps prevent evergreen winter burns during harsh winters, especially if your shrubs/trees are on the north side of your home or buildings (these take the brunt of the winter blasts!). If you prune + trim each year, you should only need to perform small, light pruning each August to maintain a healthy evergreen!
Our yard team is ready to help you find your next evergreen, guide you to pruning + trimming tools, or give you advice on your existing plants!
The Year of the Japanese Beetle…
These may be pretty little bugs, but they sure do a lot of harm to your garden!
They're baaaack!!
Have you seen any of these little guys on your plants? Take action before they undo all of your hard gardening work! We have a variety of products that will 'get the job done' at our PHD (plant health department)!
Ready to Use Sprays
Quick and easy application that takes immediate action!
Systemic Options
Great long lasting effect for bug control on the whole plant. Be sure to plan ahead as it takes a week to activate!
Beetle Bags
Keeps bugs contained + out of sight by attracting them with a lure. Pro tip - put a 5 gal bucket of water underneath each trap that will catch any beetles that don’t make it into the trap.
Which option is best for your yard? After gardening all spring, protect your garden this summer from these little monsters! Be sure to stop in to talk to our experts to arm yourselves for a beetle battle!
Tick + Mosquito Season is Here!
Ticks + Mosquitoes are Bad This Season! Try These Plants to Help Keep the Problem at Bay.
Whether you have found a few of these little ticks crawling on your skin already this season or not, they are out on the prowl! To help reduce your sightings of them this season, try strategically planting these tick-repelling herbs + flowers in your landscape to help keep these critters at bay:
Lemongrass
Lantana
Scented Geranium
Mint
Sage
Lavender
The best part about these plants? These options also all help with those pesky mosquitoes that are also ravenous this season! Don’t get stuck inside this season because of bug-fear - take back your yard (and your summer) with the help of these plants!
We offer all of these varieties seasonally, so be sure to stop out to see what we have in stock!