In Your Garden

By Pam Albo

APRIL GARDENING - Spring is here!

March and April are the prime months for planting.

Plant shrubs, flowering annuals and perennials, herbs, and vegetables.

Plant ground covers to retain soil moisture.

Fertilize roses after each bloom until mid-June.

Prune existing shrubs to encourage new growth and remove any frost damage from bougainvillea and lantana.

Check your irrigation system for leaks. As the weather warms, increase your watering schedule as needed.

Succulents only need water every other week.

MAY GARDENING – The garden is heating up

Feed established citrus.

Keep an eye on potted plants that may need increased watering.

Adjust irrigation systems to prepare for the hot summer.

Plant trees and shrubs by the end of May so they benefit from a full summer season of growth.

Remove petunias and geraniums, which won’t take the heat.

Plant cacti, agaves, succulents, and other heat-loving plants. Use shade cloth to prevent sunburn.

Warm weather is ideal for pruning cacti. Use a sharp blade and cut at a joint when possible. Dust cuts with sulphur to prevent infection.

JUNE GARDENING – The heat is on!

Protect your plants from the heat by adding mulch to help retain moisture and cool the ground.

Deadhead flowering plants to encourage continued blooming by removing spent flowers.

Water citrus deeply once a week or more.

Make sure your plants are getting enough water!

See our article in this issue on HEAT-TOLERANT COLOR FOR THE SUMMER GARDEN.