We are in prime planting time now. Vegetable gardens should be going in if you haven't planted them yet. A layer of peat or compost tilled in before planting keeps your garden soil workable and adds beneficial nutrients. If you have had a problem with blossom end rot on your tomatoes or peppers in the past, use Espoma's Tomoato-Tone to add exrtra calcium.
When planting your flower beds, remember that perennials have a specific bloom period but many will bloom again if deadheaded. With careful planning, you can achieve
season-long color by planting a variety of perennials along with groupings of annuals for a consistent splash of color. Do you have a shady area that you struggle with? I love hostas but there are so many more beautiful options to add color and interest! Cimicifuga or Snakeroot has burgundy leaves and a tall, spikey flower that smells wonderful. Brighten a shady spot with either Brunnera or Lamium which both have pretty, silvery foliage. Brunnera has delicate blue flowers and Lamium has lavender, pink or white. Ligularia has a bright and bold yellow flower that is striking against deep green foliage and Coral Bells now come in every color from lime-green to carmel to almost black. Whether you like soft, subtle color or striking bold contrast, there are plenty of choices to make your shady spot beautiful.
With the warm weather finally here, plants are definitely needing more water. Remember that new trees and shrubs can take a couple of years to fully establish and will need extra water during this time. Lawn sprinkler systems do a great job on the lawn but are not enough for your trees and shrubs. Try soaker hoses or even a portable sprinkler set in a bed to make sure everything is getting adequate water. Newly planted flowers and vegetables may need water daily depending on the heat and wind. Wind dries things out very quickly. Check hanging baskets and containers morning and evening to prevent dry, wilted plants. Remember to feed your annuals weekly with a good water soluble fertilizer to keep them looking great all summer.
I am now starting to see insect and disease issues showing up. The first question to ask is "Is this detrimental to the plant or is it more cosmetic?". Many things are mainly cosmetic and don't really need any treatment. Some things may need treating but, especially in the case of diseases, there are specific times to treat based on the pest's life-cycle. Keep in mind too, that is is important to identify the offender-the insect you are seeing may actually be a beneficial insect taking care of whatever is munching on your favorite plant. I always advocate treating only when necessary and starting with the least amount of strength to get the job done. While insecticides will kill
all insects, you can spray responsibly to protect our pollinators and beneficial insects. Stop in or give me a call with any pest questions you have. I am happy to help!
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