Leaves are part of a healthy landscape. They provide winter habitat for insects and other wildlife, protect the soil, return nutrients to the ground, and can even reduce the need for purchased mulch. This fall, consider doing a little less cleanup and let nature do a little more of the work.

When to plant... that is the question. And the good news is: you can plant just about anytime.

Here in Chesapeake, we have a fairly long planting season. There isn't one tiny window where a new perennial garden has to be installed. Instead, each season has its own advantages and considerations.