Perennials

 If you have not already, fertilize your plants to give them the best chance of surviving the winter months. With the hotter months behind us, regular watering should not be needed unless temperatures rise above 80.

Trees

We at Heritage Hill Nursery Inc., recommend planting new trees in fall. The cooler temperatures are better for the plant and make upkeep much easier for the homeowner. When planting be sure to plant high enough, so root flare is exposed and keep mulch away from the trunk. If the tree is planted too low, it can develop “Stem Girdling” roots which acts as a noose around the trunk and can suffocate the tree. These roots also make the tree much more susceptible to being blown over at the base by wind.

Perennials

Remember to keep on watering but be very careful not to overwater and drown plants by over-saturating the soil.

If fertilizing with a product like Monty’s PlantVantage, located at our nursery, either apply the diluted mixture as a follicular spray drenching the entire plant or apply it directly to the root system by using a watering can and/or drip system.

Since plants generally absorb nutrients through their leaves much faster than through the soil, the follicular application is the preferred method, but either method will work. Monty’s is “rain fast” in two hours so if rain is in the forecast, be sure to give the product enough time to fully dry before getting wet.

Early morning or late afternoon is better for application as it lessens the possibility for evaporation. This DOES NOT work for all fertilizers so be sure to read the instructions carefully if not using a product like Monty’s.

Trees

Established trees require very little maintenance. Trees that haven’t been in the ground that long, may need some assistance, especially during the hotter months. Keep an eye on these trees in particular and if they seem to be struggling due to lack of water, create a small bed around the perimeter of the tree and fill in with mulch.

Mulching can help stop the evaporation of water from the soil and help keep your tree maintain proper hydration for as long as possible. When mulching, however, be sure that the depth of the mulch is very scarce at the base of the trunk and increases in depth as it is spread away from the trunk to the outer perimeter of the bed.

Having mulch directly touching the bark of a tree can be just as hazardous as the tree not getting enough water.

When mulch gets wet, it retains moisture. If the mulch is directly touching the tree, that moisture will transfer to the tree’s bark weakening the tree’s natural defense against different types of molds and diseases.

Other ailments that can affect newer trees and should be monitored on a regular basis are signs of disease and insect damage. Sometimes if caught early enough damage can be minimized or stopped.

Here at the nursery, we carry an extensive line of products that can assist with your needs. Speak with our Garden Center Sales employees to find out which product would work best for your situation.

Perennials

Keep those plants hydrated! Some plants are more susceptible to fungus and mildew growth. If you notice a white powder or anything else on your plants stop into the nursery and we will help you find an anti-fungal treatment to treat and protect your plants from damage.

One product that the nursery uses is Bonide Fung-onil. It is a multipurpose fungicide concentrate that controls many plant diseases and be used on a variety of plants.

Another product found at the nursery, with the organic gardener in mind, is Captain Jacks NeemMax 4-in-1 insecticide, Fungicide, Miticide and Nematicide concentrate made from cold pressed Neem Oil that has been processed without any chemicals.

Trees

Just like us, bugs such as the invasive Japanese beetle, are out and enjoying the warm weather. Be sure to keep an eye out for this pest as they can destroy the foliage on trees, especially the younger ones.

If you’ve purchased a new sapling, taking preventative measures before infestation will give your plant a better chance.

Here at the nursery, you may have seen weird looking bags hanging from a few of our plant tables. These are known as Beetle Bagger Traps. These traps contain a special lure inside the bag enticing the Japanese beetle to crawl in and trapping them.

Placing a few of these traps on the outer edges of your property will help draw the beetles towards the lure instead of the plant.

Perennials

In order to keep some plants blooming as long as possible, deadhead old blooms. This will encourage the plant to bloom again! Some plants will only bloom once so stop into the nursery to find out more.

Trees

If you are planting trees this spring, we highly recommend fertilizing when planting ball and burlap trees. It is extremely important to keep them watered, however it is possible to drown plants so don’t overdo it. The ground should be damp and not saturated.

For help watering correctly, we do sell “donuts” and “water bags” which can be filled with water and in turn, will slowly release it throughout the day.

Perennials

Now is a great time to install new perennials. The cooler, but not freezing, temperatures allow the plant to acclimate without being overly stressed. Don’t forget to fertilize especially in areas with poor soil quality.

Mulch now before your perennials get too big to ensure the best coverage. Established plants that have gotten too big for their spot may need to be divided, the smaller sections taken can be replanted in your garden to really fill in the space.

Trees

Your trees should be budding out and some flowering trees like the Red Buds and Crabapples are in Full Bloom. Stop and take a second to appreciate the beautiful show.