Shrubs

Uncover rose bushes as the weather warms but be ready to recover them if the temperature is supposed to drop significantly. Any shrubs that need to be transplanted can safely be done at this point. Pull any existing weeds and top dress beds with 2-3” of shredded mulch.

When spreading mulch, be sure to taper away from the base of the plant. Too much moisture can weaken the outer layers, making the plant susceptible to disease. Any shrubs that need to be transplanted can be safely done until the buds begin to open.

Lawn

April showers bring May flowers! Unfortunately, over time the ground around your house can settle and all this extra water can pool on your lawn. If areas of your lawn are underwater for too long, it can really damage the plant and lead to dead areas in your beautiful lawn.

If you notice areas of pooling, you should contact Heritage Hill to install hidden underground drainage tubes. This system allows water to drain and be carried away, so you never have to deal with unsightly pooling again.

Perennials

Shhh… I’m sleeping. For most perennials, after they have been cut down for the winter, there isn’t anything more that will need to be done.

However, some perennials such as Butterfly Bush or Lavender, will benefit by adding 6-8” layer of mounding mulch material for additional insulation.

If you choose to “heal in” your perennials, you will want to make sure that that the plant is no longer green and has already died back for the season.

Shrubs

Take care to clean shrubs of fallen leaves. Any accumulation of leaves over a long period of time can lead to rot. After the leaves have fallen completely feel free to use a leaf blower to make it very easy.

If pruning escaped your list of things to do the previous month, no worries. Shrubs that haven’t formed next year’s buds already can still safely be pruned.

Lilacs and Forsythias for example are shrubs that you do not want to prune in the fall as next spring’s buds are clearly visible and if pruned now, would result in no blooms later.

Trees

If you haven’t already, mulch your trees! Mulch acts as a layer of insulation that protects the roots and keeps the tree happy all winter. This especially rings true for arborvitaes.

In addition to mulch, another layer of protection that can be done for trees, shrubs, and perennials that seem to struggle during winter months is applying an application of Wilt Stop.

Derived from pine resin, once applied a soft, clear, and flexible film forms helping to protect the plant from drying out, winter burn, winter kill, and salt damage.

Although it is safe for most plants, arborvitae, junipers, and cypress should be avoided. For the application to be successful, it must be applied before freezing temperatures. Wilt Stop isn’t just for your outdoors.

If you prefer real Christmas trees, applying Wilt Stop before the tree is decorated, will assist in preventing moisture loss and premature needle drop.

Although our garden is center is closed until November 25th, Wilt Stop can be obtained sooner by setting up an appointment to purchase.

Lawn

Your lawn should now be dormant, and much like you when you’re sleeping it just wants to be left alone. There is no need to water, fertilize, or treat for weeds.

If you choose to install lawns late in the season like in the picture, it will more than likely be dormant seeded. This means the seed will not grow until the next growing season. Take care not to disturb this area over the winter.

Not sure how to proceed or have questions? Stop by Heritage Hill Nursery Inc., and one of our representatives will be able to assist you.