Perennials
May is a busy month for gardening! For perennials, bring out the peony cages and other plant supports to provide the necessary support to the plants once they become top-heavy. Make sure to guide new stems into the squares early, as it becomes more challenging to squeeze them in between the wires once the flower buds open.
Newly purchased perennials can be safely planted this month, though if the temperatures have been unseasonably low, wait another week. Place the pots outside during the day and bring them into a protective environment at night. For existing perennials, slow-release or liquid organic fertilizers can be beneficial. Once the plant is in the ground, make sure to water it daily in the morning to prevent wilting in the afternoon.
Shrubs
When it comes to shrubs, sprinkle a slow-release fertilizer around the base of the plant. To prevent damaging insects and fungi, take proactive measures early in the season. Bonide Systemic Insect Control and Bonide Infuse Systemic Disease Control are both effective products that come in a liquid concentrate and can be safely mixed together and used on a wide range of plants. Since these products are both systemic, the liquid is absorbed into the plant, so you can water plants freely without washing off the product.
Trees
When planting new trees, make sure to stake them correctly. The tree should be loosely secured to the stake using a tie to prevent excessive swaying that can tear new root hairs, which the tree needs to survive. The tie should allow the tree to sway back and forth in the wind to allow proper root flare development. It should be staked until the roots have established into the ground.
Lawn
As for lawns, now is the time to fix any dead patches by over-seeding. This process involves top dressing your yard with high-quality soil and adding a seed mixture that’s more suited to your light and soil conditions. This cost-effective option can be completed in one day and will grow quickly enough to ensure you have a lush lawn to enjoy this summer. Visit Heritage Hill Nursery, Inc. for all your supplies.