October Lawn and Gardening Tips

Tree and Shrubs

There’s still plenty of time in early and mid-October for tree and shrub planting. If it’s a new landscape, consider shade for the outdoor living spaces and for cooling the house in summer. 

See more fall tree planting tips here.

Gardening

Reduce problems in 2024 by removing dead and dying plants now. Disease infected and insect infested veggie plants can serve to provide harborage for these pests for future reoccurrence. If they’re pest ridden, avoid tossing them on the compost pile; if they’re just reaching the end of their lives, then they’re good compost pile additions.

Lawn

Control dandelions, plantain, clover, field bindweed and wild violets with spot spray applications of Trimec, Speedzone or Roundup for Lawns (Not Roundup Weed and Grass Killer or Roundup 365). These combination herbicide products are effective if the label instructions are followed carefully. Pay special attention to wind speed, amount of product per gallon of water, temperature on the day of spraying and personal protective equipment to wear.

Fruit in the Garden Online Class

When: October 24 from 7-8 pm

Register at https://hles.unl.edu/grobigred

Learn about common, unusual, and native fruits and how to incorporate them into your home garden. We’ll discuss fruit options for Nebraska’s growing zones and basic establishment and management for bountiful harvests.

Tomatoes

Tomatoes are a great source of lycopene, which is an antioxidant that may help lower the risk of some forms of cancer, promotes heart health, and helps keep the immune system healthy. Tomatoes are also high in vitamin C, which helps heal cuts and wounds and supports our immune system, and vitamin A for eye health.

Keep tomatoes at room temperature away from direct sunlight and use within 1 week after ripening. Refrigerate overripe or cut tomatoes. Place unripened tomatoes in a closed paper bag to ripen faster.

Information about canning and freezing tomatoes along with fresh tomato recipes here.

Celebrate National 4-H Week - October 1-7, 2023

4-H is a community of youth learning in partnership with caring adults! Many 4-H youth showcase their projects at the Fair! Learn more here.

WHY 4-H?

4-H is America’s largest youth development organization! In 4-H, youth:

• Choose from over 150 projects to “learn by doing” (such as STEM, photography, foods, home environment or animals).
• Develop practical and life skills.
• Participate in leadership and community service activities.
• Have fun while making new friends!

YOUTH: JOIN 4-H!

Ways youth ages 5–18 can participate:

• Join a new or existing 4-H club.
• Be an independent member.
• Participate in 4-H activities such as workshops and contests.

ADULTS: VOLUNTEER!

Ways adults can help youth grow:

• Help start a new 4-H club.
• Help with an existing 4-H club.
• Volunteer at events.

The 4-H year will start in the fall. Learn about upcoming events and deadlines by signing up for the 4-H newsletter by emailing 4-H here.