q       Fertilize annual plants and containers monthly with a liquid organic fertilizer.

q       Check Vinca (Periwinkle) for canker and dieback (Phomopsis livella).   The shoots become dark brown, wilt and die back to the soil surface.  Prune and destroy infected shoots and spray with a Bordeaux mixture.  (Bordeaux mixture is a compound of copper sulfate, slaked lime, salt, and water and has been used in Europe for over 100 years.  Available from 'Gardens Alive!'.)

q       Inspect plants for mites and other pests and treat as needed.  Catching problems early makes them easier to solve.  Use organic methods whenever possible. (Neem, horticultural oil, and insecticidal soap are good organic choices.)  Pay close attention to Euonymus scale - if present, spray with horticultural oil.

q       Dead head annuals and perennials to encourage continuous bloom.

q      Monitor soil moisture around newly planted shrubs & trees.  If we receive less than 1" of rain per week, provide supplemental water.  Consider attaching a rain barrel to your downspout to collect rainwater for later watering of plants when rain is scarce.  You can find a simple rain gauge at most garden centers.

q      As you may have noticed, weeds are still growing rampantly right now.  Do a little weeding at frequent intervals before you (and your garden) become overwhelmed.  Pull weeds by hand and hoe (the "old fashioned" way) rather than resorting to herbicides.  Invite a fellow gardener friend over to help and return the favor in their garden.

q      Deadhead roses regularly to encourage new blooms.  Remove dead and dying stems quickly and disinfect pruning shears between rose bushes to prevent spreading disease.  Dip shears into a jar of rubbing alcohol to disinfect.

* These tips are just general suggestions.  Be sure to consult your local Cooperative Extension Agent or a good book, such as The American Horticultural Society's Pruning & Training Manual for more thorough instructions.

May Tips