Tips for the Garden - February 2020

February is National Bird Feeding Month… this year the Audubon Society will be making national awareness of the decline of birds in North America. This awareness of loss of nature began more than several years ago with bees, then butterflies, to pollinators and this year will focus on the loss of birds and their habitat. The next will be frogs. Our world is losing nature and it’s help for human survival at an alarming rate. I truly hope by now that these declines in nature have hit home with you and that you realize that now it is time to do something about it ourselves. You will hear much more about these environmental efforts throughout the year. 

For winter care of birds one of the easiest things to provide is water. Providing shelter is another way to help. There is a shortage of nesting sites for cavity-nesting birds due to land development, and the use of pesticides. The use of birdhouses and nesting boxes has helped many species make a comeback. Landscaping that provides shelter can be a great help. Evergreen trees and shrubs provide a place out of the wind, snow or rain. Birds gather in groups towards the inside and huddle together to create more warmth.

The final piece of the puzzle is providing food. Here in Missouri, winter is a difficult time for the bird species that have chosen to overwinter here. There is little to no vegetation, and most of the insects are dead or dormant. Most songbirds feed on insects and spiders during the spring and summer; however, the non-migratory species switch to fruit and seeds in the fall and winter. Black oil sunflower seeds are preferred by the largest number of bird species. Enjoy the birds this season with these simple tips.

It is also time to think about starting any garden and flower seeds in the house that you may want to grow this year. Our last frost date is around May 1^st, so back up the weeks on the calendar for seed starting so you know when the best time for planting in the house would be. Ample light is very important for this task.

Another cold weather job is cleaning up any containers or planters that you have stored away. While doing this, make a list of the flowers that you are going to need for these containers in the spring.

Until next month,    

Sandi Hillermann McDonald

Garden Solutions - February 2019

             February continues with dreary weather, but the anticipation of spring is closer every day.  Our daylight hours are getting a little longer, which holds the promise that spring will be here soon.  There are a few things to remind ourselves of, in preparation for this fabulous time of year.

            Seed sowing time is upon us!  Now is the time of year to start seeds indoors for slow growing annuals such as Ageratum, Petunias, Geraniums, Impatiens, Salvia and Coleus. Check out the great selections of seed varieties available. We may now also move into our gardens outside, if the weather permits, to start the seeds of Peas, Lettuce, Spinach and Radish. What a great feeling to work in the fresh air again!

           

            Keep an eye out for Chickweed and Henbit in your lawn.  These two early weeds have already emerged and will be thick this year.  Spot treat these areas with Fertilome Weed-Out weed killer to keep it from going to seed.

            Amaryllis and Paperwhite bulbs can still be forced indoors this winter.  Make sure you keep the top 1/3 of the bulb out of the container, place into a sunny window, water and enjoy.  Houseplants will be coming out of their winter dormancy soon, so now is the time to consider repotting and trimming root bound plants.  This works best before vigorous growth occurs.  When transplanting, choose a container that is about 2” larger in diameter than the old pot your plant is in today.  This will make for an easier transition period for your plants.  Add a slow release fertilizer, such as Osmocote, at this time. We have a great selection of new and fun plant varieties.

            Service and repair your lawn and garden equipment if you haven’t already done so.  Sharpen and oil your hand tools, if this wasn’t done last December when you put your gardens to rest.  A bucket of sand and a quart of motor oil work great for cleaning and oiling our tools.  Pour the motor oil into the sand and insert your tool blades. This will help keep them clean and keep them from rusting.  Have your lawn mower tuned up and the blades sharpened this month also.

            Deep root feed all trees and shrubs once the soil thaws.  This gets the plants off to a great start for spring.  The fertilizer has a chance to flow up with the sap and directly to the new growth giving way for great green foliage and flowers.

            Dormant spray all fruits, berry plants and roses with a dormant oil spray when the temperature is above 40*.  This will help protect the plants from any over wintering fungus spores and insect eggs.

            It is time to go, so we will “See you in the garden!”

Sandi Hillermann McDonald

February Tips for the Garden 2010

Starting from seed……………
I’m not a fan of winter. There is nobody more excited than I am to see those first signs of spring, like the appearance of crocus. They pop up, and then I know I’m down the home stretch. It is at this time that I can also begin planning my vegetable containers. Part of my planning is deciding which vegetables I should start from seed. During these early months before spring is also the time that you should begin planting many of the summer vegetables you want to start from seed. Some seeds should be started indoors. There are others that you will be able to plant directly outside into the ground. Follow these simple steps to sprout all sorts of tasty treats this coming season.

Starting seed indoors: here is what you need to get started:
Something to plant in - peat pots, planting trays, and peat pellets work best. Just make sure the container drains well and is large enough that it will not dry out between watering.
Seedling potting mix - you will want to use a potting soil that is designed for starting seeds. Fertilome seed starting soil is the perfect medium for germinating seeds. The mix is designed to promote better root development in young plants.

Seeds - there are so many to choose from. For most varieties, plan on growing 6-8 weeks indoors, but check packet directions for accurate growing times. Also, check the packet to see if pre-soaking is recommended. Some seeds are recommended to be sown directly into the ground, so make sure to read the directions.

A place to grow - seeds need a warm place in order to germinate. After they sprout, sufficient light is critical. A sunny windowsill works fine, as long as it is not too hot or cold.
A cover - if your planting tray did not come with a clear plastic lid, you can use plastic wrap to cover your finished tray.

Spray bottle - you’ll want a spray bottle to be able to mist your soil to keep it moist.
Now you are ready to plant seeds. Follow these easy steps for success!
Fill your planting tray or peat pots with seedling potting mix. Pre-moisten the mix with clean water. Peat pellets are fun to use if you have young children. When you add water the peat pellet transforms from a flat disc to a tall self watering pot.

Place your seeds in the soil. Larger seeds can be planted individually into the tray or peat pot. Smaller seeds can be very difficult to see. Sprinkle 3-4 seeds over the soil in each pot. Press in or lightly cover the seeds with potting mix. Do not cover them deeply with soil.

Cover your planting tray with a clear tray lid or with clear plastic wrap. You can also place plastic wrap over the tops of individual pots if you don’t have a tray. Place the tray or pots in a warm spot out of direct sunlight. Make sure that your soil remains warm and moist.

When the seeds begin to sprout, remove the plastic wrap. Turn the tray every two days to keep the plants growing straight. Plants will always grow toward the sunlight.

Thin or transplant the seedlings when they get 2”-3” tall and have developed true leaves. This should happen after about 2-4 weeks. Thinning is done by gently pulling up the young plant or pinching off the stem. Transplant them to slightly larger containers to allow the roots to continue to develop. Lift seedlings carefully by digging them out with a fork or spoon, taking care not to disturb the tender roots. Keep transplants out of direct sun for a couple of days to prevent wilting.

Feed with a liquid soluble plant food diluted to half strength and remember to keep your soil moist, but not soggy.

When the danger of frost has passed, transplant your seedlings into the garden, but they must first be “hardened off”. Set the tray outdoors in shade for 2-3 hours a day, slowly exposing them to full sunlight. After the week is over, transplant the seedlings into the garden. Remember to use a transplant fertilizer when planting them.

Planting seeds outdoors; after danger of frost has passed (generally May 1st in Franklin County, MO), there are many seeds you can plant directly into the ground.

To begin, choose a spot that gets plenty of sunlight and where the soil drains well. Prepare the soil by raking the area clear of leaves and other debris. Dig the garden to loosen the soil down to about 12”. Add a transplant fertilizer at this time.

Make planting rows with a garden trowel or a pointed object, like a pencil to make indentations in the soil. Some seeds like cucumbers may require you to make the soil into mounds to plant the seeds. Plant the seeds according to the spacing directions on the back of the seed packet. Large seeds can be planted individually. Some seeds, like carrots are quite small. These smaller seeds can be mixed with a bit of sand and sprinkled over the area. You will want to read the directions on the seed packet to know how deep to plant the seeds. Attach the empty packet to a stick at the end of the row if you wish to identify what is planted there.

Water the area with a gentle flow from a watering can or hose. Be careful not to shoot the seeds right out of the soil with too strong of water pressure. Keep the garden moist (not wet), until the plants are up and growing.

Final tip:
Whether planting a seed straight into the soil or planting a transplant, don’t forget to bait for slugs. They will feast on our young plant before the plant grows big enough to feed you! Plus, keep a photo journal or a log of the weekly progress in your garden. Once the sun decides to finally return you’ll be surprised at how quickly your tiny little seedlings start mature and you can begin to harvest the fruits and vegetables of your labor.
Now, have fun planning for spring!

See you in the garden...
Sandi Hillermann McDonald

February Tips for the Garden 2009

February is National Bird Feeding Month!!!

February is National Bird Feeding Month…and if you have not yet enjoyed this hobby, it is not too late to start. Choose a certain variety of feeder for the types of birds you would like to attract. Tube type feeders are great for all types of songbirds, including finches, nuthatches, chickadees, and more. Platform type feeders, (feeders with a horizontal bar or platform) are best for attracting larger birds such as cardinals, bluebirds, blue jays, etc. Viewing the antics of these fluttering jewels is remarkable. Start today.

I cannot believe that it is the first week of February already. January is normally one of the slowest months around a garden center, but this year it has flown by. It is a time for education, programs, restocking, inventory, merchandising and so much more. We have been busy getting ready for and looking forward to a beautiful Midwestern spring.

I am all excited about what is on the horizon in the gardening industry for 2009. So, let’s talk 2009 Trends in Gardening:
1. Eco-boosting is in. Conspicuous Consumption is Out. From hybrid cars to canvas shopping bags, consumers want to do their part to end conspicuous consumption and boost eco-friendly living. Today’s consumers are displaying ‘green pride’ by digging into gardening. A simple way to be an eco-booster is to create natural habitats for wildlife and say “no” to chemical ‘garden drugs.’
2. Grow it Yourself (GIY) is in. Doing it ALL for Me is Out. Relaxing, tranquil moments may be few and far between, but the increase in gardening reconnects us with nature, family, and friends as we share our bounty. With the increase demand for year-round fresh fruits and vegetables, local farmers markets are seeing an upsurge in business, community gardens have waiting lists, and plant swaps are on the rise.
3. Blended gardens are In. Segregated gardens are Out. Edible landscapes transform our yards into an ornamental but productive space as lettuces and parsley mix with roses and petunias. Planting mini-vegetables and being able to say, ‘I grew it myself’ is hip and cool. Container gardens are a great way to add edibles to your landscape.
4. Locavore is In. Big carbon footprints are Out. Buying local is all the rage. Again, this shows with the insurgence of farmers markets and their growing popularity. Home Grown is so good!
5. Water is In. Water is Out. For the first time, water is “In and Out.” Whether moving in fountains, endless waterfalls, or fishponds, the soothing sounds of water can turn any backyard or indoor area into a private oasis.
6. Outside is In. Inside is Out (But not “out”). From bean sprouts on kitchen counter tops to green walls laden with herbs, plants are being used to decorate spaces as ‘art-in-motion.’ There is a trend to bringing the outside indoors with tropical plants. They create instant beauty a give a boost of oxygen and clean air. They make perfect home air purifiers. Outdoor rooms and kitchens continue to be popular.
7. Info Lust is In. Lack of Knowledge is Out. Lack of time and knowledge have been primary reasons people hesitate to garden. Not anymore. Novice and experienced gardeners alike are hungry for inspiration, information, and instruction on gardening and “how-to-tips.” Gardeners’ are gobbling up information from friends, classes, workshops, magazines, and the internet on everything from best cultivation practices to which herbs are best to relieve stress. Sharing stories with bloggers and friends is a good way to learn more.
8. Quick & Simple is In. Over-the-top gardens are Out. Containers are no longer a trend but a garden staple in large and small spaces. Containers with an evergreen shrub or tropical plant for foliage add ‘boom without bloom’ and are gaining popularity. Simple edible gardens are best grown this way.
9. Worldly is In Cookie-cutter is Out. Americans have embraced the ‘world bazaar’ of vibrant colors, textures, sights and sounds. Rustic stone for pathways, patios, walls, and hidden trails, bring an added sense of discovery, charm and intimacy to any garden.
10. Bubbling is In. Excess is Out. Outdoor living continues to boom as the trend for “stay-cations” and “bubbling” comes home. Staying home and entertaining in our sociable spaces, dining and playing in comfortable great rooms, enclosed patios, and decks is preferred to expensive outings. People are staying home more and investing more in their homes.

So you can see, whether you’re gardening in the yard, decorating a balcony, patio or deck with assorted containers, or growing herbs in the kitchen window, it’s clear that “Mother Nature” is back in all we do!! So grab the kids and enjoy the fresh air and beauty around us. Start planning your spring gardens NOW……………

I cannot wait to get out and enjoy in the garden… see you next time.

Sandi Hillermann McDonald