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SPRING IS IN THE AIR!! PREPARE NOW FOR THE SUMMER HEAT TO FOLLOW!!
Well, it looks like Spring may arrive early again this year. The daffodils and daylilies are peeking through the soil already. This time of year can be both frustrating and exhilarating if you love gardening. The weather warms up, the sun’s shining and we all get the urge to plant something. But we may be tempted to plant just a little too soon.
Perennials can be planted anytime the ground is workable, but there’s still time for a few good cold snaps. New growth on perennials can be damaged by heavy frost and annuals won’t stand a chance against temperatures near freezing. Being able to work outside this time of year is great, and there are lots of things you can do now to prepare for the hot summer weather we know will be here soon.
Flower beds need to be cleaned and re-worked before setting out those new plants you’ve been eyeing in the plant catalogs. The preparation you do now in the beds can help insure a beautiful garden even when temperatures soar and spring rains are a memory. Adding humus (compost or aged manure) to the soil will help conserve water later on in the season. Working it in carefully around emerging plants will help to make the bed drain well and retain water. Plant health depends on the quality of the soil and plants in water-retaining soil actually need less fertilizer to thrive. Adding the humus will enrich the soil and help hold moisture with being soggy.
Since our number one concern during mid-summer heat will be the water requirements of the plants, now is the best time to place bubbler or drip hoses in your beds before existing plants fully emerge. These hoses are fairly inexpensive and help prevent run-off because they water slowly and more deeply. Another necessary water retaining step is the addition of a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around flowers, trees, and shrubs. Mulching reduces water evaporation and shades the soil so watering can be less frequent and the plants will enjoy a constant supply of moisture. But please remember to pull the mulch a few inches away from the stems of your plants.
These water saving suggestions work for both existing beds and new ones you’ll be starting this spring. However, there are even more water saving ideas that should be considered when starting a new bed. Begin by mapping out the planting areas and other areas of your yard (lawn, children’s play areas, etc.) according to irrigation needs – i.e., areas that need very low water (boggy sites), low water (shaded areas), and moderate water usage areas (morning sun, afternoon shade). The key is to match the water and soil requirements of the plants you’ll be growing to these areas. Your favorite nursery can help you with the hardiness and water requirements of the plants you’re selecting. Even if several of the plants you choose are the thirsty ones, simply group them together and place them near your water supply. It’s easier and more efficient to water them together and only when they really need it. These are just a few simple ideas to help you plan now for a water efficient, beautiful garden even through the summer. |
