April is
the “opener” of spring. Grass greens up, trees leaf out, shrubs begin to bloom,
perennials come back, and the birds continue to sing. This is truly my favorite
time of year, the time of rebirth! The seasons move so fast, this is one that
you really need to s-l-o-w d-o-w-n and enjoy every day.
Now pay attention to the birds singing early in the mornings
and their increased activity, which leads way to courting, nesting, and soon to
be, new fledglings. Therefore, I encourage you to continue feeding our
feathered friends during this important time and enjoy the antics that lie
ahead. I would also like to remind you that these little birds do eat many
insects, which is a great benefit for your yard and garden. You should already
have your purple martin houses up and filled, and now it is time to hang up the
hummingbird feeders. You can make your own nectar using four parts water to 1
part sugar (1/4 cup sugar to 1 cup water). You can start with slightly more
sugar in the mix to attract the hummingbirds, and then go back to the 4 to 1
mixture once the hummingbirds are frequenting your feeders. Boil together the
mixture to dissolve the sugar, fill your feeders and enjoy. Change out the
liquid frequently as hummingbirds are very fragile and our summer heat can
quickly ferment the sugar mixture. Clean the feeder in between each filling.
One of the
bigger movements continuing 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.
·
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.
·
Mole young
are born in chambers deep underground.
·
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
