Welcome back to our Monthly Garden Maintenance Series—where we align seasonal rhythms with smart, sustainable garden care. November in California brings shorter days, cooler nights, and the perfect opportunity to nurture the next wave of blooms. This month, we’re focusing on spring bulb plantings, fertilizing for winter bloomers, and winterizing irrigation systems.
🌸 Planting for Spring: Bulbs & Beyond
While many parts of the country are winding down their gardening year, California professionals know November is the beginning of the next growing cycle. Cooler temperatures and moist soil create ideal conditions for planting spring-flowering bulbs.
Tips for Success:
- Pre-chill bulbs such as tulips and hyacinths for 4–6 weeks at 40–45°F if planting in mild coastal or low-elevation zones.
- Amend planting areas with compost and an organic bulb fertilizer before planting to support strong root growth and vibrant blooms.
- Plant depth: Two to three times the bulb’s height, ensuring well-drained soil and correct orientation (pointed end up).
- Recommended Organic Fertilizers:
- Down To Earth Bulb Food (3-8-8) – promotes root development and bloom quality
- Espoma Bulb-Tone (3-5-3) – includes beneficial microbes for soil health
- Dr. Earth Flower Girl Bulb Food (3-14-2) – phosphorus-rich for abundant flowering
đź’ˇ Pro tip: Layer bulbs under perennials or evergreen groundcovers to extend visual interest and create natural-looking, low-maintenance displays.
🌼 Fertilizing for Winter Bloomers
November is also an important time to feed winter-blooming plants such as Camellias, Hellebores, Cyclamen, Violas, Stock, and Alyssum. As temperatures cool, these resilient performers begin their growth and flowering cycles—making now the perfect time to replenish nutrients in the soil.
Guidelines for Winter-Blooming Fertilization:
- Choose slow-release, organic fertilizers that provide balanced nutrients without burning sensitive roots.
- Work compost or worm castings into topsoil to improve texture and microbial activity.
- Organic Fertilizer Suggestions:
- Dr. Earth All Purpose (4-6-3) – ideal for container and in-ground ornamentals
- FoxFarm Happy Frog Fruit & Flower (5-8-4) – supports steady bloom production
- Fish emulsion or kelp-based feeds – gentle liquid boosts for cool-season growth
- Mulch lightly after fertilizing to protect roots from temperature swings and maintain even moisture.
đź’ˇ Reminder: Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers late in the season. Focus instead on phosphorus and potassium to enhance flower formation and strengthen root systems through winter.
đź’§ Winterizing Irrigation Systems
As rainfall increases and plants slow their growth, it’s time to inspect and adjust irrigation for the dormant season.
Checklist for Professionals:
- Inspect and clean filters, flush drip lines, and replace clogged emitters.
- Shut down and drain valves in colder inland or elevated areas to prevent freeze damage.
- Adjust controller programs for reduced watering needs—many landscapes can switch to manual or “rain mode.”
- Test rain sensors and verify smart controllers (Baseline, Hunter, Centralus) are calibrated for seasonal changes.
- Document system performance for easy startup in spring.
💡 Pro tip: Offer irrigation winterization as a standalone service for clients—it’s one of the most cost-effective ways to prevent system failures and demonstrate proactive care.
🍂 A Final Note
November’s work is all about laying the foundation for vitality. From nourishing winter bloomers to planting bulbs and protecting irrigation infrastructure, these steps ensure healthy, thriving landscapes well into the new year. A thoughtful November approach pays dividends in spring beauty and client satisfaction.
Let’s keep growing,
Lauren Cook
Mazra’a Gardens
Garden Design & Consultation
