One of the
bigger movements across the country this year is “Protecting the Pollinators”. Last
year a huge push to “Save the Monarch Butterfly” was seen everywhere. A few
years ago, the Honey Bee had been known as declining. Well, the decline of
these most important Pollinators is still a strong concern. Therefore, we need
to make ourselves aware of the push to save ALL pollinators. We can help with
this push by being aware of your surroundings and eliminating the use of
synthetic insecticide products, especially on blooming plants that are visited
by pollinators. It you have an insect issue, talk to a representative at your
local garden center about methods of controlling pests without harming
pollinators. Our food supply depends on it.
There is so
much to talk about in April, I have made a short list of some of the more
common, timely items that will need attention or guide you as we begin this
most wonderful season of Spring!
·
When Crabapples are in bloom, hardy annuals can
be planted.
·
Transplant trees, shrubs and perennials early in
the month for best success.
·
Spots and bare patches in the lawn can still be
over seeded if you did not apply a Crabgrass Preventer. During spring there are
more issues to be aware of when seeding a lawn rather than in the fall.
·
Liquid weed control should be applied this month
to control dandelions, henbit and other broadleaf weeds. New grass from seed MUST
be mowed 3 times to make it strong enough to withstand weed chemicals.
·
Prune spring flowering shrubs after they finish
blooming.
·
Start cucumber, squash, cantaloupe and
watermelon seeds indoors this month.
·
Termites
begin swarming. Termites can be distinguished from ants by their thick waists
and straight antennae.
·
Ants have
slender waists and elbowed antennae.
·
Mole young
are born in chambers deep underground.
·
Hang out hummingbird feeders the first of this
month. Use a solution of 1 part sugar to 4 parts water. Change the solution
frequently to keep if from fermenting. Food coloring is not needed nor is it
recommended for the birds.
·
The last week of April is a good time to try an
early sowing of warm season crops such as green beans, sweet corn, etc.
Transplants of tomatoes, eggplants, peppers, and sweet potatoes can also start
being planted outdoors.
·
Container gardening is good choice for flower
and vegetable gardening if space is in short supply. It can be done by anyone,
anywhere, check it out!!
·
“Natural Gardening” is here to stay………..keep
your family safe and check out what organic/natural options are available to
you when gardening this year. There are many.
Well, time is running short…see you in the garden,
Sandi Hillermann McDonald
