Hort Shorts
When deciding how close to the house to plant a tree, consider the tree’s mature size. The Arbor Day Foundation recommends the following guidelines for spacing from the outer wall of a 1-story building: Large trees (70 feet or taller), at least 20 feet away; medium trees (30–70 feet), at least 15 feet away; small trees (30 feet or less), 8–10 feet away.
When purchasing bark mulch, be sure it has a fresh, earthy smell. Sour mulch indicates poor preparation and storage and contains substances that can be harmful to plants. If you open a bag and it smells like vinegar, ammonia or sulfur, return it to the place of purchase.
Don’t fertilize perennials at this time of year. They need to ready themselves for winter dormancy.