Now is the best time to apply fertilizer that will feed all season-long.
Prune roses and cut back ornamental grasses and perennials.
Divide overgrown perennials.
Identify areas for new plantings. Be sure to use a starter fertilizer.
Monitor for insect and disease infestations. When pest problems occur, take "first-step" action using natural, environmentally-friendly control products.
Summer
Stake taller plants for support.
Deadheading flowers will encourage repeat blooms.
Use landscape fabric and a 4-inch layer of mulch to prevent weeds.
Feed regularly with a high phosphorus fertilizer to encourage blooms.
Water early in the morning or at dusk, not in the heat of the day. Use a ground-lying soaker hose in area of dense growth.
Trees and Shrubs
Spring
Remove winter wraps when the risk of frost has passed.
Spray dormant oil to control over-wintering diseases and insects on trees and ornamentals.
Feed established trees and shrubs with a high-nitrogen fertilizer to encourage healthy, woody growth.
Prune back forsythia after blooming.
Prune summer-blooming ornamentals after the risk of frost has passed.
Plant bare-root trees. Be sure to use starter fertilizer and Triple Mix.
Summer
Water newly-planted trees well around their trunks.
