As is very common in Michigan, we experienced a late frost during the early days of May.  While this certainly can do damage to tender growth,  most plants will recover.  Because of the frost and cooler temperatures, some of your trees and shrubs may be a bit slower to leaf out.  As long as you have soft, green buds and soft, supple branches, they should eventually push out. You can help by making sure your plants are getting adequate water.  While we hopefully won't have any more frost or freeze advisories, if we are expecting colder nights, an old sheet will help protect tender plants.

Link to:   MSU Extension Resource

     Whether starting a vegetable garden or adding to your landscape, there are some important things to keep in mind.  Pay attention to how the sun moves over the area you are planting.  What direction does the area face?  If planting on the north or east side of the house, are there large trees adding additional shade or is the house or other structure the only source of shade?  This is important because if there are no larger trees, you will get some sun reflecting off the ground and building.  Remember that full sun plants need 6-8 hours of good sun.  Direction is also vital because some trees and shrubs need protection from the northwest winter winds.  This makes the east side ideal, however if there are trees or structures blocking the winds, you may be able to plant on a different side.

     Look at your soil and how the area drains after a heavy rain.  Although there are many plants that will tolerate and even thrive in a wetter location, most plants prefer a well-drained soil. When planting in an area that stays wet, be sure to choose plants that will tolerate wet feet.  If you have a heavy clay soil, adding sphagnum peat or compost mixed with topsoil will help to lighten the soil up.  Simply spread it on the ground and dig or till in. A sandy or gravelly soil will benefit from Michigan peat or compost mixed with topsoil. When planting trees or shrubs, be sure to add your amendments first, till in and then dig your hole.  This will prevent the "water basin effect" of having one type of soil inside the hole and a different type of soil outside the hole.  Remember to use a good starter fertilizer when planting.  Epsoma's Biotone is a great organic fertilizer.   For garden beds, try Espoma's Gardentone.

     Think about watering.  Be sure you have easy access to a source of water, keeping in mind that lawn sprinkler systems will not adequately water newly planted trees and shrubs.  Soaker hoses are a great way to water larger shrub beds and there are many types of oscillating and impulse sprinklers that can be set up.

     It is always best to plant things that will thrive in the growing conditions you are able to provide. With a little planning and forethought, you can have a beautiful and successful garden or landscape.

     

 Link to:   MSU Extension Resource

     One of the easiest ways to add a burst of spring is to put out colorful annual porch pots and hanging baskets.  We have a beautiful selection and and can help you choose the perfect one for your garden.  If you want to express your creativity, stop by our new potting station.  Simply choose from our large selection of ceramic, plastic or fiber/resin pots or bring one from home, then put together your own unique container using our colorful annuals.  

     Spring flowering trees such as Flowering Dogwood and Horsechestnut are showing their color too.  You can also choose from our wide selection Azalea, Rhododendron, Lilac, Hydrangea and Roses. Remember to add a few perennials to scatter color throughout the season.

Angela Hennig

Retail Sales Manager