The recent unseasonably warm weather is allowing for more
opportunities to get outside and do some yard work. You may be wondering what
kind of tasks should be done this time of year when the weather is so mild.
Well, we’ve made a list to answer that question!
1. Pull weeds
and mulch. You probably don’t have a huge amount of weeds right now. So
this is a great time to get ahead of them. Once you’ve weeded an area, lay
mulch (straw, woodchips, leaves, or compost) on top, leaving space around the
plants. This helps keep future weeds from sprouting.
2. Prune trees
and shrubs if needed. Prune dead branches any time. Prune trees and shrubs for shape, to
encourage flowers or fruit, or in some cases to improve the health of the
plant. WSU Pruning
Landscape Trees discusses about the pros and cons of different pruning
times on page 8.
3. Transplant
trees and shrubs. Prepare a hole that is twice as wide as the plant’s root
system but only deep enough to fit the roots. Set the plant at the same level
it was previously growing and fill in with the native soil. Research has shown
it is better not to mix compost or additional organic matter into the planting
hole to encourage the plant to root firmly into the soil. Be sure to water right away. Adding mulch on top of the soil helps conserve
moisture. Read more in the WSU
publication Planting
Trees and Shrubs in the Landscape.
4. Clean and
organize tools. Take some time to go through your yard and garden
tools. This is a good time to sharpen blades, replace handles, and toss out
those old work gloves you never use anymore.
5. Plant
roses. Late winter or early spring are the months to plant roses.
Our Common
Sense Gardening Guide to Roses can help you choose the varieties that grow
best in Thurston County. It also has great tips to help you grow beautiful
roses… that hopefully the deer don’t find out about.
And the sixth unofficial task is daydream of beautiful spring
and summer days spent enjoying your yard and garden!
No comments:
Post a Comment