March welcomes ‘Spring’, and it will be met with open arms this year!! This is the month to open the gardens and get things in shape for the new growing season, which means there is plenty that can be done. To name a few; mowing time is upon us; have you sharpened those mower blades?
To keep that lawn looking fantastic, it
is time to add Fertilizer with Crabgrass Prevention. If you feel you need to
over-seed the lawn, check with the professionals on proper steps for spring
treatments.
Clean
up those perennial beds and cut down all Liriope and Ornamental Grasses to
about 3-5” above the ground. Once this has been done, it is time to re-mulch
your shrub and flower beds. Top-dress these areas with a slow-release fertilizer
as well, such as Osmocote. Top dressing beds with organic compost is beneficial
as well.
Nesting boxes for Bluebirds and Purple Martin houses should be put out early this month. Purple Martins return to our area between St. Patrick’s Day and the end of the month. So now is the time to be prepared. Bluebirds generally stay around all year, but new babies will be coming along soon. Sign up for our weekly, educational newsletter at www.hillermann.com to learn about tips and articles of these great birds.
It is truly an exciting time of year to “wake
up” the senses. Trees are beginning to
set buds, and wildlife is getting ready to multiply. Enjoy every day, as everyday will continue to
change.
Now
it is time to go, so we will “See you in the garden!”
Sandi Hillermann McDonald
