So, you missed applying the pre-emergent again last fall and weeds are growing up everywhere! It appears they do not grow so much faster because they are weeds, but . . .they are weeds because they grow so fast!

The culprits we call weeds or things that we don't plant and grow like weeds are considered as a "symptom" of a flawed situation rather than the problem. 

Actually, weeds aren't all that bad but, rather, simply misunderstood plants that have somehow fallen out of favor! While weeds are known for reduction in crop yields when they compete for water, nutrients, and sunlight, there are several positive factors that favor having weeds around . . . at least, for a while.  One of those is Integrated Pest Management (IPM).

It's a rather interesting way to look at weeds.  If it interests you, c lick on BENEFITS OF WEEDS  to learn more about this "out of the box" thinking.

It's spring, and the Monarchs are migrating. Yes, Monarchs migrate in the autumn and spring. In fact, spring migration may be even more important than autumn migration in determining the success of the Monarch population.

 

Most gardeners are familiar with the autumn migration of Monarchs. We note the passage of these beloved butterflies through our gardens as they funnel south from Canada and the northern states through the central states. Then, they flood through Texas and into their wintering grounds in the mountains near Mexico City.  From Tulsa, that's a distance of some 1,350 miles. Quite a trek for such a delicate-seeming creature!

 

Even more astounding, though, that same generation of Monarchs that made the journey to Mexico some 4-5 months ago, now begins its northward migration. Beginning late February to mid-March, this additional 600-1,000 mile journey is timed to match the succession of spring-blooming nectar plants (mostly native wildflowers and trees) that feed the Monarchs, and the growth of milkweed on which they lay their eggs.

So, planting certain plants (milkweed) will not only fill your garden with the graceful fluttering of Monarchs but will help their population grow for your children and grandchildren to enjoy.  Click on MONARCHS & MILKWEED to learn more about their migration as well as plants (and certain weeds) that benefit these beautiful creatures.

The dream of almost every garden enthusiast is to have a picturesque and editorial ready outdoor space with lush green, bounding flowers, and fresh garden produce ready to pick and eat. As gardeners, we spend labor intensive weekends, hours of planning, prepping, planting and fine-tuning to make this dream a reality.  

The end goal is to create a sanctuary - our own Garden of Eden and happy place for ourselves, friends, and family to enjoy. However, creating this Dreamscape isn't always practical or obtainable. Physical limitations, lack of property on which to establish a garden, or a non-permanent residence, all serve as barriers for the green-thumbed dreamer who feels stuck without.  

The solution?  Container gardens!  With the ability to bring the earth to a rooftop, balcony, rental property, or moving home, these types of gardens have been growing in popularity with the urban crowd, the the non-permanent resident, the physically limited, and the gardening newbie. The new gardener will benefit from the increased ability to control the soil type, quality, and nutrients, as well as other variables such as the amount of watering and the available mobility to correct for changing sun availability.  

Click on CONTAINER GARDENING for much more information on how to be successful at this "new" type of gardening.

During our spring season is the time that homeowners may notice swarming insects in and around their property. In our area you can have BOTH ants and termites beginning to swarm, so you should first make the proper identification between ants and termites before developing an attack plan. 

It is more likely that the swarm will be made up of ants; however, it could be termites. If so, that particular swarm needs to be treated sooner rather than later in order to prevent severe damage to building structures. So, before applying any insecticide or pesticide, you should first make a positive identification of the type of swarming insects. This prevents you from applying the wrong insecticide or pesticide application.

Click on SWARMING INSECTS to learn how to properly distinguish between flying ants and flying termites.

          {Looks Good!}                                         {A Mulch Volcano - A Big No-No!}

As you look around town, you will find so many opportunities to provide trees, shrubs and flower beds the mulch they desire and need. Although mulching has many benefits, such as helping to reduce soil moisture loss, regulating soil temperature, and minimizing weed germination and growth, there can be a tendency to misuse this beneficial landscaping resource.

Click on MULCH to find out what to do and NOT to do with mulch along with some key application tips.

It's spring and we're seeing a few 60-70 degree days! Gardening juices are starting to flow and planning a drip irrigation system might be a good way to utilize that extra gardening energy. 

Drip irrigation is the most efficient and environmentally friendly watering system. Water is a non-renewable resource that is so readily available and affordable in the Tulsa area that we tend to undervalue it. In Oklahoma, 30-40% of household water is used to maintain our home landscapes. As stewards of the land, it is up to us to make choices that increase efficient water usage. A drip irrigation system enables us to deliver the precise amount of water needed at the time it is needed which in turn provides less runoff, evaporation and easier weed control.

Click on DRIP IRRIGATION - PLANNING for more information on how to plan and set up a system.

DID YOU KNOW?

The Tulsa Master Gardener Foundation is a 501 (c) (3) organization.  As such, it receives no city, state or federal funding for its Tulsa community outreach programs. In fact, the Tulsa's Master Gardener programs are self-funded by its own fundraisers, from member donations, and from public donations.

The main Tulsa Master Gardener fundraiser is its Annual Spring Plant Sale that is held each April.  Other fundraisers include the Garden Tour and Garage Sale in June.  And, one of the most important income sources that sometimes gets overlooked are the personal and corporate donations.  These are so important in helping us to meet our financial obligations and we want you to know they are very much appreciated. 

Our Master Gardeners are on hand to assist you with even the toughest gardening questions. Visit us in person, by phone, via email or online! Hours of operation are Monday through Friday 9:00 a.m to 4:00 p.m.

Address: 4116 E. 15th Street, Gate 6 at the Fairgrounds

Phone: (918) 746-3701