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Coneflower 'Playful Meadow Mama'
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You are probably wondering what in the world is going on with Mother Nature this year. We have had a very cool, rainy spring and then "Bam" summer came, and now we have had no rain and temperatures in the '90s.
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So what does this mean for your plants? They are probably stressed, and when they are stressed, they're more vulnerable to pests and diseases.
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To avoid further stress, here are some tips that you can follow:
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Follow a regular watering schedule:
Most plant deaths are a result of improper watering. The roots of newly planted plants dry out faster than the soil around them. A newly planted tree or shrub will probably need to be watered every three days, depending on weather conditions.
DO NOT solely rely on rain as a means of watering new plants. During extensive periods of rain, you may need to water less, but during dry periods, or in areas exposed to the sun for most of the day, monitor plants closely to determine their need for water.
When watering, use a slow, deep-watering method to ensure the entire root system is reached. You should monitor a plant’s water needs for the first two growing seasons. Remember that plants are not forgiving and that it only takes one time for a plant to dry out to die. Thus, be vigilant and make appropriate plans if you will not be able to water your plant for a length of time.
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Due to the extensive spring rains this season, plants' root systems are very shallow. It is essential to continue watering deeply and thoroughly, to prevent additional drought stress.
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General Watering Guidelines for Clay Soil:
1 gal. Pot – trickle water for approx. 10-15 minutes
2 gal. Pot – trickle water for approx. 20-30 minutes
3 gal. Pot – trickle water for approx. 30-40 minutes
4 gal. - 7 gal. – trickle water for approx. 50-60 minutes
B&B – trickle water for 50-60 minutes
Remember, if it rains for 1 hr, it probably was not enough water for a newly planted shrub or tree.
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Containers & Hanging Baskets: In hot weather, containers may need to be watered every day sometimes twice a day depending on the size of the pot. Water until the water comes out the drainage hole in the bottom.
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Use Root Master:
Use Root Master once a week on newly planted trees, shrubs, perennials, and roses for the first 4 to 6 weeks following the directions on the bottle. Root Master is a rooting hormone that helps prevent transplant shock and encourages new root growth. In the first months after being planted, it is essential for plants to develop a good root system. The root system is what supplies all the nutrients to the plant. Many people expect their trees and shrubs to start growing quickly and are disappointed when they don't. It is better though for the plants to put their energy towards developing a healthy root system so that they can survive through the winter months.
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Do not apply fertilizer in extreme heat:
Chances are your annuals need a good fertilizing due to all the rain we have had over the last month. The best time to fertilize is in the early morning before the sun is high overhead. Avoid fertilizing during the hottest part of the day to prevent flowers from burning. When applying avoid the foliage as much as possible. We recommend feeding annuals once a week with Master Nursery Bud And Bloom.
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Newly planted trees and shrubs should be fertilized with starter fertilizer, only, the first year. If necessary, begin feeding the second year after establishment. Excessive fertilization during the first year can damage the plant and reduce its rate of growth.
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Mulch:
Mulching is one of the best things you can do for the health of trees, shrubs, and flowers. Proper mulching is especially crucial for plants under stress or newly planted ones without extensive root systems.
Mulching provides an insulation layer, conserves soil moisture, improve the soil’s physical structure and fertility, prevents erosion and water runoff, and reduces root competition.
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Spread mulch under trees, shrubs, and throughout planting beds to a recommended depth of 3-4 inches for medium to coarse textured materials. Pull mulch away from the bases of tree and shrub trunks, creating a donut-hole. Do not pile it up against the trunk (“volcano mulching”). Excessive mulch on the trunk causes moisture to build up, creating ideal conditions for insect pests, diseases, and decay.
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As always, if you have any questions, comments or suggestions, hit reply. I would love to hear from you. Have a great-gardening day.
Sincerely,
Holly
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Mosquitos have been at an all-time high this year due to all the rain. Although there is no sure fire way to keep them out of your yard, you can follow some simple steps to keep them from multiplying.
Clean up any possible sources of standing water such as saucers, fountains, wheelbarrows, trash cans, kiddy pools, and buckets to eliminate potential breeding areas.
Clean birdbaths every few days and replace with fresh water.
Keep ponds aerated or stocked with fish. Mosquitos prefer quiet, non-flowing water for egg-laying.
Put up a bat house. Bats can eat up to 1,000 mosquitos per hour.
Use Mosquito Dunks or Bits in standing ponds and rain barrels. Mosquito Dunks are non-toxic to pets, fish, and humans. Make sure to follow directions on the label.
Remove any brush piles. Brush piles make great homes for adult mosquitos to hide in.
Keep your gutters clean and clear.
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Mosquitos are most active at dusk and early morning. Of course, this is the perfect time of day for everyone to be in their gardens.
When gardening, make sure to wear light-colored clothing and avoid wearing floral perfumes.
There are many repellants out on the market, along with many plants that repel mosquitos. Although they do help, they are not 100 % guaranteed effective.
The best way to avoid getting bit is not to go outside or to use a bug spray such as "OFF" while outside.
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The Onion Wagon
Saturday, July 13th
Time: 11:00 am - 4:00 pm
Sunday, July 14th
Time: 11:00 am - 4:00 pm
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