YOUR GARDEN GUY: Consider 'hardscape' projects in cool weather

As cooler weather arrives, consider "hardscape" projects such as installing a garden path. Here are some tips:

The path should go to something -- preferably something attractive.

Make the path at least 3 feet wide.

Materials for the path can include pavers (my favorite), poured cement, stone, loose pebbles or mulch. Just be sure that the surface is easy to walk on and stable.

When using loose stone or pebbles, be sure to use materials that are angular instead of round. Round stones keep moving around, and this can be uncomfortable to walk on. It's like walking on a million marbles!

For paths with loose materials as a surface, line the path with metal edging or stone to keep it neat and attractive.

Landscape lighting along the path is an invitation for an evening stroll.

If you have more questions, feel free to contact me.

Here's a few more general tips for the garden this week:

It's time to place orders for poinsettia, and other Christmas plants, from local organizations.

Continue to remove leaves from the lawn with a rake or mulching mower. When raking, put the leaves in a compost pile.

Use ornamental kale, mustards and cabbage in containers for added color and interest.

Stack firewood on a wood pallet to prevent wood decay. When stacking, use a "criss-cross" pattern. Because of termites, all firewood should be stored at least 20 feet from the house.

Spring bulbs are on sale now for as much as 50 percent off. Daffodils reliably flower year after year in our area. Bulbs can still be planted in beds, so buy a bunch!

Todd Goulding provides residential landscape design consultations. Contact him at www.fernvalley.com or 478-345-0719.

This story was originally published November 4, 2015 at 10:07 PM with the headline "YOUR GARDEN GUY: Consider 'hardscape' projects in cool weather ."