Here we are in early June and the planting season is finally really underway. Even the farmers have been planting soy beans during the last week or so after being held up by the cold rainy weather that was with us late into the spring. So let’s get planting, now that the weather is with us. There are lots of good vegetable and flower plants and seeds that can be planted now. Well established plants- from annual flowering plants, vegetables and potted perennials, trees and shrubs are available this time of the year that transplant especially well. The soil is warm and plants will really take off as long as we keep them watered until they are established. Many varieties will actually do better now than they would have earlier.
Remember these tips that we have been mentioning in this gardening column for the past year or so.
Soil preparation is the key to good plant response. Breaking up the soil and adding organic matter is not a sales gimmick but something that really allows plants to get established and makes it easier to maintain them during the heat of the summer. Incorporating a root stimulator when planting also aids in getting plants established more quickly.
When planting trees and shrubs be sure to plant them a little higher than the soil level where they are being planted. This allows the roots of the plants to seek the correct level for best growth in our heavy clay soils.
Water when needed. Overwatering can cause problems so be sure to check the root ball, not the soil around it, of the newly installed plant to be sure the root area has dried some and before the plant wilts, before you water.
It will soon be time to trim any flowering shrubs that bloomed this past spring if they need to be pruned, this will help to have maximum blooms next spring.
Evergreens like pines and spruce can be developed into denser plants if half to one third of the new growth is “pinched” back while it is still soft. If this is done on young evergreens the plants will be much fuller.
Red spider mites can be a serious problem on some evergreens in warm weather and one of the best deterrents for this insect is to spray down the plants with a strong stream of water and wash the foliage frequently. This is particularly true when we experience a prolonged dry period in July and August.
If you applied a pre-emergence weed control product to your flower beds back in March or early April it will soon be time to reapply so you can enjoy your flowers and not spend most of the summer pulling weeds. Mulch will also help to reduce weed populations and conserve needed moisture this summer.
We’re all about making gardening easier and more enjoyable. Let’s take the “work” out of it and enjoy our creator’s beauty. Send you questions to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
Meadow View Growers
New Carlisle, OH
