Two of my cousins from Massachusetts were here for a visit last week. Besides the enjoyment of just being together, they were enchanted with my flower beds and delighted with the dozen or more hummingbirds at our feeders. They told me “growing season” is over up there, and another cousin told me all their hummers are gone for the year. I couldn’t help but feel sorry for them.

Here in Alabama, all the hummingbirds are “tanking up” getting ready for their yearly migration across the Gulf of Mexico. And we’re lucky enough to have a much longer growing season. While it’s too late to plant seeds outside, it isn’t too late to put an autumn plant or two in the ground.

Whether you are a master gardener or a novice like me, there are several options. Some of my favorite places to buy plants are Collector’s Showcase and Hazelwood’s Greenhouse & Nursery. You can also still find quite a variety of autumn plants at Home Depot. Last week, I was able to find some plants, which were half price, at Collector’s Showcase. 

If you are, like me, new to growing plants and flowers, take the time to ask questions. The St. Clair County Extension Office is a good place to start. However, Mr. Hazelwood and/or Becky at Hazelwood’s will be glad to take the time to explain, to make suggestions and to encourage you.

My Writers Anonymous writing group made a small flower garden for me a few years ago. I didn’t do much with it until this year. Once I started, I couldn’t stop. My husband said, “They created a demon!” However, my plant-loving WA friends disagree. They say they encouraged a “budding” gardener.

Why don’t you pick up a plant or two, ask about a million questions and get ready to get your hands a little dirty? We’re blessed to have such a long growing season, and who knows? You might just find yourself having the time of your life! I’ve listed below some places you can get some help and information (not to mention a few plants).

St. Clair County Extension Office

1815 Cogswell Ave B103

205-338-9416

Hazelwood’s Greenhouse & Nursery

925 23rd Street N, PC

205-338-3952

Collector’s Showcase

4504 Cogswell Ave, Pell City

205-338-0855