Coming up . . .

Holidays are just around the corner! (Can you believe it?) And all the garden centers are dressing up for the occasion. Like Dennis' 7 Dees on Powell. Visit their Holiday Bazaar this weekend with local artists, and live music. Saturday and Sunday from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm.

But before you get completely caught up in the decorating spirit, finish any “putting the garden to bed” activities. Don’t let them hang over your head.

This is really the last weekend to plant cover crops in the garden, but if you can’t get to it – don’t despair. A layer of compost, garden mulch, or straw will also do a great job of protecting soil from erosion and adding organic matter, as well.

Are there still plants in pots at your house (as there are at mine)? Well, get them in the ground. The soil is still a bit warm and roots can dig in a bit, before cold sets in. Cover the root zone with mulch, but keep it away from the crown of the plant.

For gardeners, there’s still lots to learn. Check out these classes and talks.

Plants That Deserve More Attention in Portland Area Gardens
Sean Hogan, co-sounder of Cistus Nursery with discuss plants that you may have overlooked.
Multnomah County Master Gardeners (Mt. Tabor Presbyterian Church, 5441 SE Belmont); Tuesday, November 10th at 7:00 pm.

Sustainability – What Is It and How Does It Relate to Gardening
Rosalyn McKeown, Associate Professor Portland State University, will shed light on this complex subject in the contemporary, metropolitan context.
Clackamas County Master Gardeners (Milwaukie Center, 5440 SE Kellogg Creek Dr.); Monday, November 9th at 7:00 pm.

Indoor Citrus Care
These plants are great looking and sweet smelling – plus, you get fruit! You just have to try one.
Al’s Garden Center – Gresham; Saturday, November 7th at 1:00 pm and Sunday, November 8th at 3:00 pm.

Pruning in the Landscape
If there is clean up to do – do it right. Get some tips on how.
Al’s Garden Center – Gresham; Saturday, November 7th at 3:00 pm and Sunday, November 8th at 1:00 pm.

Indoor Edibles
Vern Nelson shows how to keep the fresh bounty coming in all winter and introduce you to growing micro-greens indoors.
Portland Nursery – Stark; Sunday, November 8th at 1:00 pm.