By JOE LAMP'L, DIY Network

There have been quite a few lively discussions going on in the gardening blogosphere lately about the lack of quality garden-related programs on HGTV, DIY and others anymore.

As leaves fall each autumn, branches formerly shrouded in a canopy of dense foliage reveal themselves once again. Although given the choice, many people I know would prefer to never have to deal with the ensuing mess. I, for one, relish this time as an opportunity to inspect each tree canopy.

I am often asked for the best time to transplant. In many parts of the country, trees and shrubs can be transplanted any time of year, but no matter where you live, fall is the best time.

As we transition from the fading blooms of summer into fall, don't think that all hope for color is lost until spring. There are many plants that will take us all the way into winter and sometimes beyond. Here are three favorites that come to mind.TRICYRTIS

Just like gardeners, the act of gardening can take on many forms. As you and I fret over important backyard challenges such as why our hydrangeas aren't blooming or how come that tomato just won't ripen fast enough, others are dealing with much bigger issues.

Want to know how to kill a houseplant in any one of seven easy ways? Here you go:1. Over water it. It's the number one contributor to houseplant death. Far more plants die from over watering than under watering, both indoors and out. What you should do: Stick your finger into the soil. If it's damp, hold off adding water until it's dry.

Wouldn't it be nice to enjoy those brilliant colors of autumn leaves all year rather than just for a few short weeks? Maybe so, but the changing colors each fall is part of an important and complicated process that ends in the leaves' being shed at the end of each growing season. The actual term used to describe this process is known as abscission.

There's a new term I saw a lot this summer: "staycation."

Leaf season. I don't know of many two-word combinations that invoke such vivid imagery. No doubt you had a colorful picture come to mind as you scanned those words. Who can't help but marvel at the splendor of a brightly colored autumn vista?

When was the last time you did a soil test?I believe there are two factors more responsible for a healthy landscape than anything else. First, putting the right plant in the right place is critical. Second, making sure your soil is healthy will help ensure that you have the conditions and nutrients your plants and lawn need to thrive.