Fall planting event postponed

 Because of historically high temperatures, volunteers of the Chadron State College Arboretum have moved their fall planting project to Saturday, Oct. 20 instead of this Saturday, its original date.

Members hope the temperatures will be cooler and more conducive to planting at that time.

“Soil temperatures are still far too high to put spring-flowering bulbs like daffodils and hyacinths in the ground”, said Lucinda Mays, Chadron State College horticulturist. “At high temperatures like the 79 degrees we have now, newly planted bulbs will leaf out prematurely. Ideally, soil temperatures should be about 60 to 65 degrees with nighttime temperatures of about 45.”

The event is designed to help people learn how to fall-plant trees, shrubs and perennials, including bulbs. The group also will have a chance to do some plant labeling in one of the campus gardens to help inform campus visitors that are interested in learning more about the plants of the High Plains.

Mays will provide volunteers with a brief classroom session followed by a planting demonstration and hands-on work session in the campus gardens. Lessons learned during the arboretum’s work days translate to the home landscape.

“We learn a little, improve the campus landscape, and just generally have a pretty good time together,” Mays said.

Volunteers are invited to meet at 9 a.m. at the Mari Sandoz High Plains Heritage Center on campus and work until noon.

“We encourage volunteers of all ages at all of our events. All are welcome for all or part of the day, and we commit to end promptly at noon,” Mays said.

Volunteers are asked to bring what they have of hand trowels, rakes, and garden spades. People are reminded to dress for the weather and wear gloves, a hat and to bring drinking water. Snacks will be provided.

For more information contact Mays at 308-430-4186 or Jane Darnell at 308-430-2204.