As the temperatures continue to rise, many of you may be wondering if you can still plant. The answer is yes! As long as you are able to water, you can most definitely plant. Remember that new plants need water regularly for the first couple of years until they are established and then at least 1" of good water a week. This means daily or every other day for the first 2-3 weeks then gradually backing off to a couple of times a week. Even though we have had rain, we are getting it in large doses with weeks of dry in between. This actually causes more stress for the plants and is not giving them the water they need. Excessive heat and wind will also dry things out very quickly meaning you will need to do extra watering. The best way to know if your plant needs water is to check the soil. Is it moist all the way down through the root system? Is it soggy and mushy or evenly moist? Is it moist only an inch or two down? You want the soil to be evenly moist all the way through the root system. This is best accomplished with slow, even watering from the hose or a sprinkler set up. Be careful to keep strong impulse sprinklers away from tree trunks as this can actually damage tissue below soft bark. Lawn sprinklers will not adequately water your trees and shrubs. Your containers and hanging baskets may need water twice a day, morning and evening. Keep in mind that it is easier to water ahead before the plants have dried out. I like to water in the morning whenever I am able then check things again when I get home from work.
We are continuing to bring in fresh Proven Winner Annuals. If you are a little behind in getting your annuals in or have lost a couple of flowers with the heat, stop on in. We just received another shipment of beautiful flowers including large 1 gallon annuals in full bloom.
Annuals are a great way to add instant color to any outdoor space. Be sure to water at least once per day. Keep your annuals looking lush and full all summer with a water soluble fertilizer such as Miracle Gro or Alaska Fish Fertilizer. Water soluble fertilizers are very quick release and give annuals the boost they need to look great into the fall.
Our perennial section is full and beautiful as well with fresh blooming flowers. Be sure to deadhead your perennials. Many of them will bloom again later in the summer if you deadhead after their first bloom. I also recommend fertilizing your perennials at least once a year. I like Espoma fertilzers. They are organic and will work with your soil and have the added benefit of being pet and critter friendly. I love using perennials because I can have something blooming virtually all summer long by combining perennials with different bloom times. Do you have a shady area? We have the solution. There is so much more to a shade garden than hostas. Not that I mind hostas, but why not get creative. Play with colors and textures. Brunnera has a lovely silver foliage and blue flowers that brightens up dark spots. The yellow spike flower with bold, burgundy back leaves of Ligularia add a striking contrast. For a border plant, use Lady's Mantle. It has a soft, yellow flower and palm shaped leaves which holds a drop of morning dew in the center-very cool. Coral Bells now come in every color imaginable. Not sure where to start? Stop in and see us, we can help. When choosing your plants, whether for sun or shade, consider planting for pollinators and wildlife.
Plant Issues to Watch For
With the early spring rains followed by hot and humid weather, we are seeing numerous disease and insect issues. The most common diseases right now are Scab on Apple and Pear trees as well as a variety of Leaf Spot and Blights. I expect to be seeing Powdery Mildew soon. Most of these can be treated by the homeowner although it is important to identify the disease so that you can spray at the proper time. Some things can be treated now, but some should be treated next spring. A few diseases don't really need any treatment.
As for insects, Aphids are currently running rampant. They will infect almost anything. A telltale sign is curling on the tips of branches. Upon closer examination, you will find very small insects (they may be green, yellowish or even purple or red) and a sticky substance. Some people find the sticky leaves before they see the Aphids. Ants may be present because they feed on the sticky honeydew secreted by the Aphids-they actually will herd the Aphids together like cattle. I recommend looking for Ladybugs on the branches with the Aphids. Both adult and immature Ladybugs eat the Aphids and if you are able to wait, you may not need to spray. Spidermites have also made their appearance with the hot weather. Again, sometimes it is better to wait if possible before treating. There are predatory Spidermites that feed on the bad ones. Both will be killed off with spray which sometimes causes a resurgence of the bad mites.
I always recommend using the least amount of strength to do the job when it comes to spraying any type of pesticide. Sometimes waiting and watching are a better option. Remember that anything you spray not only affects what you are controlling, but also any insect in the area, including the good guys that feed on the pests. It comes down to is it detrimental to the plant or is it minor damage that will go away in time. If you are needing help with any issues with your landscape, please bring samples in for us. We can advise you on the best option for your situation using both natural and traditional means of treatment. Remember the healthier the plant, the better able it is to fight off any issues.
