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ANNUALS, PERRENIALS PLANTING AND CARE

By Kurt On April 18, 2009 Add Your Comment

Bedding plants purchased from nurseries or garden centers can have pot-bound root systems. If in this condition before installation loosen and untangle the roots without breaking apart the root ball. This will allow the plant to obtain water faster and become established quicker. When planting spacing is determined by the eventual mature size of each type of plant. Spacing is important for air circulation. Group each type together and do not mix colors which can be distracting to the eye. Do not plant plant them too deep or not deep enough to where the roots are exposed. Proper planting helps them to grow healthy.

WATERING CORRECTLY:

Water immediately after planting and on a daily basis until they become established. Once they have a good foundation water only on an “as needed” basis. A watering schedule according to the requirements of each type of plant will help them grow healthy. Watering also depends on rainfall, drought conditions, and if placed in the hot sun. Watering using a hose with a breaker attached, watering can , or a drip irrigation system is recommended. Water the soil avoiding getting it on the leaves and flowers. Some types of plants can be ruined by continuous watering and splashing from overhead sprinkler systems. Plants such as geraniums, celosias, marigolds, gerberas, verbenas, petunias, phlox, portulacas, snapdragons, and pentas are sensitive to damage from overhead irrigation. Begonias, pansies, coleus, caladiums, impatients, and new guinea impatients are tolerant of overhead watering.

WEED CONTROL:

Weeds growing in your garden can be controlled by applying a pre-emergence herbicide or hand weeding. Hand weeding is recommended when herbicides can not be used and when pre-emergence don’t control all types of weeds. Use hand weeding for new growing weeds that germinate after applying chemicals for continuous control. Pre-emergents are safe to use around most species of plants, but can be harmful to some types. Do not place plants that can be harmed with those that are safe in the same beds. Always read the label for instructions and what type of plants the chemical can be used with. If a species does not appear on the label do not plant that type.

FERTILIZING PLANTS:

If organic material was mixed in the soil during preparation prior to planting, a good foundation was established. Plants have already received the proper nutrients. After establishment the soil can become depleted of nutrients from watering and erosion. Keep plants healthy fertilizing them on a scheduled program. Use a liquid plant food applying with a spray attachment to your garden hose, or by spraying with a pump sprayer. Your local garden centers offer name brand products for this type of feeding. Follow directions for the correct amount required for them to grow healthy and vigorous.

PESTS AND DISEASES:

Annuals and perennials can have insect and disease problems. Monitor them often for early detection and immediate treatment. Pest control by spot treatment can stop a major infestation. This method also reduces the amount of usage of chemicals in your garden. Diseases can be kept from spreading to other plants if recognized early. Removing infected leaves by hand when monitoring helps keep diseases from getting out of control. Spot treatment with a fungicide is recommended. Good air circulation and limiting watering of leaves and flowers reduces problems.

Proper planting and care will result in having succes in your garden giving you lots of color to add to your landscape.

Kurt Kmetz

Mulching Tips and Information

By Kurt On April 11, 2009 Add Your Comment

Mulch is used for appearance, moisture retention, weed control, and in keeping soil temperatures warm in the winter, cool in the summer. Mulch is helpful to keep erosion from occurring in landscapes. It is placed around bedding plants, trees, and shrubs.

There are different types of mulch to choose from which are sold at nurseries, garden centers, or grocery stores. It can be purchased by the bag, or loose in large quantities which can be delivered ( Be prepared for a pile dumped on your property ). Some counties offer free mulch to be picked up, but a pickup truck will be needed to transport it to your location, contact your local extension service for information.

Proper mulching is important for the health of plants, trees, and shrubs. Listed are some helpful tips to assure it is done correctly:

1) Applying the amount of mulch is determined by the texture and it’s density. Spread fine mulch two to three inches deep after settling to avoid suffocating the roots of plants.

2) Mulch composed of shredded or small leaves such as oak leaves should not be spread exceeding a depth of two inches. The leaves become compacted together which restricts water and air to the root system. DO NOT pile too high.

3) DO NOT pile mulch close to or against the base of any tree or shrub. This can cause ” ROOT - ROT ” from lack of air circulation and too much moisture retention. Leave space around the base and trunk.

4) DO NOT place mulch above the lower stems of shrubs burying them causing them to rot. This will promote a disease known as ” STEM - ROT “.

5) DO NOT put mulch up against or too close to the trunk of citrus trees. Place around at the end of where the canopy extends to or do not mulch at all for it is not necessary for citrus trees.

6) Mulch in larger pieces last longer and is better for weed control. Fine mulch adds nutrients to the soil faster by breaking down quicker.

7) Professional landscapers mostly use a mulch containing both fine and course.

Organic mulch does not need to be replaced more often and less is required as the plants or shrubs mature.

9) AVOID piling mulch up against walls of buildings in order to keep from attracting termites. Place it at least two feet away from your home.

10) DO NOT leave old mulch in your landscape for a long time. Clean it out and replace it with fresh brand new to avoid fungus problems to your plants, and shrubs.

11) It is  NOT recommended to use a ” RED - DYED ” mulch which can create a chemical un - balance in the soil. This can be harmful to the health of plants, trees, and shrubs.

12) I don’t prefer to use pine bark nuggets for they attract the nesting of carpenter ants which will eventually wind up in your home, if placed close to it.

By following the information listed above you will achieve the succesful garden and landscape wanted by everyone. I hope these will be helpful tips for you.

Thank You, Kurt Kmetz