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Even though, weather-wise, this is the worst time to be in the garden, there are many garden chores to be done. To have the best fall gardens, we need to prepare now. First let’s talk about fertilizing.

With temperatures in the upper 90s, and little to no rain, we need to think about giving our yards, shrubs, trees, roses, vines and ground covers some help. In other words, everything needs a boost, which means you probably need to fertilize. Think of this time of year as the second best time to fertilize, spring fertilizing being No. 1. Keep in mind that natural fertilizers can be used anytime without watering, with no fear of burning.

If your lawn is showing signs of yellowing, or has areas that are dead, maybe a late summer feeding will help. Of course, all the nutrients in the world won’t help if it’s not getting enough water. Also, make sure you don’t have any insect issues going on. Grub worms and chinch bugs are in town for the summer. They’re hungry, and they need a place to hang out for a few weeks. You don’t want it to be your yard. Beneficial nematodes will help get rid of them. One more thing to consider is a fungal problem. Fungal diseases usually aren’t as common this time of year, but don’t rule it out when diagnosing a problem.

This is not a good time to transplant shrubs in our area. The intense heat is hard enough for established shrubs to handle. If possible, wait a few more weeks to tackle that project. Make sure all your shrub beds are well-mulched. This will help to keep their roots cooler and help keep valuable moisture in the soil. Fertilize your shrubs with the same fertilizer you use on your lawn. Keep an eye out for spider mites on azaleas and junipers. A strong blast from the garden hose will help to knock most of them off the plants. Several applications of an organic insecticide should then help to finish the rest of the pest off.

Now is an excellent time to evaluate your yard for new trees. Shade trees planted in the right locations will not only provide shade for the lawn, but could be used to lower your utility bills. Trees will help to block the sun from windows, exterior walls and your roof. Small growing trees can be utilized to shade patio areas. If you do decide you need another tree in your landscape, wait until the temperature cools down to plant if possible. October through February are great times to plant.

By this time of the year, your roses could be looking a bit worn out. It’s important to feed them now for the best fall blooming. Trim off any dead blooms and cut off any dead or diseased limbs that may be on the shrubs. Don’t think about transplanting a rose this time of year. Just like with all other plants, if possible you want to wait until the temperatures cool down this fall.

If you have vines growing in your yard that are beginning to reach out and grab you when you walk by, it may be time to do some trimming. Any vines that bloom in the spring, such as wisteria and Carolina jessamine, can be trimmed now so they have time to set buds again for the next season. Then don’t forget to feed them.

Keep the water bottle handy, and try to get outside as early as possible. Work for a couple of hours in the morning and then again in the evening when it’s cooled off some. Cooler days are to come.

Until next time, let’s try to garden with nature, not against it, and maybe all our weeds will become wildflowers.

Laurie Garretson is a Victoria gardener and nursery owner. Send your gardening questions to laurie@vicad.com or in care of the Advocate, P.O. Box 1518, Victoria, TX 77902.