For 'green thumbs,' November an excellent time to plant trees and vegetables

November is a good time to plant hearty cool season flowers, trees and vegetables, according to experts at Agromin, a Camarillobased manufacturer of soil products.

Certain flowers thrive in cool weather: Plant fall annuals such as pansies, violas, primrose and calendula so they will be in full fall and winter bloom. Perennials including nemesia, godetia and schizanthus are also good choices for a varied fall and winter flower garden.

Keep lawns healthy: Rake falling leaves from lawns, as leaves could impede lawn growth. If a lawn is looking "tired," sow in annual rye seeds to cover brown spots and to introduce new growth. After seeding, scatter a light covering of soil amendment and water thoroughly.

Plant trees: Fall is the ideal time to plant trees. Southern California's fall climate, with cool nights, mild days and moderate rainfall, gives trees a strong beginning that will serve them well when growing season begins in spring. Just about every tree type can benefit when planted in fall.

The key to success is to select a planting location that is best suited for the tree type. Take into account the tree's rate of growth, root configuration, leaf type, tree shape and ultimate height at maturity. Make sure the site has enough sun.

Other factors to keep in mind are if the tree is on a slope where watering may be difficult, near a walkway or patio where roots may eventually cause a problem and whether the tree will be too big for the site at maturity.

Winter vegetable garden: November is a good time to plant cool season vegetables such as beets, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, celery, cauliflower, lettuce, onions, turnips and rutabaga. It is also a good time to plant fall herbs including oregano, garlic, rosemary and thyme.

For more planting and gardening tips, visit the website at www.agromin.com.