These rounded, flat-faced Spring flowers look just like a chubby-faced baby, so how could you not love them? AND… Payne’s has plenty of them to share!

STOP BY TODAY AND BRIGHTEN UP YOUR DAY!

The Pansy is one of the most popular flowers in the garden! Despite their delicate name and appearance, pansies are hardy, disease resistant and do well in cooler climates. Plus, they are low maintenance and easy to grow! The Pansy is a member of the Viola family and is easily recognized. The round flowers have five petals and come in a wide variety of colors ranging from bright pink to pure white. Flowers can a be single solid color, while others have black lines radiating from the center. The most familiar looking Pansies will have a dark center that looks like a “face.” Leaves can be oval or heart-shaped. They grow to be 8-10 inches tall.

• the name Pansy comes from the French word, pensee, which means thought or remembrance
• in the language of flowers, the pansy represents thoughts of lovers
• Pansies are one of the oldest cultivated flowers in history
• the Pansy was particularly popular in the 19th century and was commonly used in “love potions”
• Pansy flowers are edible and have a minty flavor; they can be added to salads and desserts
• yellow and blue pansies seem to have the strongest scent
• the flower can be used as a natural dye
• Pansy petals are often used in potpourri

Here are this weeks three tips on what to do in the
garden during the month of October! 

Prepare for Winter:

• October is an excellent time to prepare your garden for the colder months ahead. Start by cleaning up any fallen leaves, dead plants, and debris. This will help prevent diseases and pests from overwintering in your garden.
• Trim back any perennials that have finished blooming and cut back summer annuals that are past their prime.
• Consider mulching around the base of trees, shrubs, and perennial plants to help insulate their roots and conserve moisture.

Plant Fall Bulbs:

• October is the perfect time to plant spring-blooming bulbs like tulips, daffodils, and crocuses. The soil is still warm enough for them to establish roots before winter but cool enough to prevent premature growth.
• Follow planting instructions for each type of bulb, usually placing them at a depth of two to three times their height.

Harvest and Preserve:

• Harvest any remaining vegetables and herbs from your garden before the first frost arrives. Tomatoes, peppers, and many herbs can be harvested and preserved through canning, freezing, or drying.
• If you have fruit trees, pick ripe fruits like apples and pears. Store them properly to prevent spoilage.
• Consider planting a cover crop like winter rye or clover in any empty garden beds. Cover crops help prevent soil erosion and improve soil fertility over the winter.