Garden Solutions - August 2010

August brings us the dog days of summer... there is no doubt about that. If you have not started enjoying “Outdoor Living,” it is NOT TOO LATE. There are designers in the landscape industry to help you with ideas that will turn your yard into an outdoor oasis. More and more people are retreating to their own backyards. Look for inspiration at every “independent lawn and garden retailer.” Consider adding a water feature to “cool” things down a bit.

Here are a few health benefits of enjoying the outdoors. To the non-gardener or hard-core athlete, gardening may seem like a sedentary activity, but it is not. Activities like carting mulch around in a wheelbarrow, digging in the soil, plus all that bending and lifting involved in planting really does burn calories. Studies show that depending on the activity, gardening can burn between 250 and 500 calories per hour. For many people gardening is a creative outlet, for others it is the change of scenery from the daily grind that makes a difference. Still others find that the satisfaction of reaping the rewards (those tasty fruits and vegetables, and beautiful flowers) of your efforts is what helps to reduce stress levels. So try it out and let me know what you think. I would love to hear your gardening stories. You can email me at sandimcdonald@sbglobal.net.

You desperately need to continue watering during this month. There are many ways to supply water economically and easily, just ask the experts. In-ground irrigation systems are available as well as drip irrigation systems. Drip irrigation systems are very easy for the homeowner to install. Wildlife in your yard, as well as all new and established plantings, need your help during hot, dry summer days. Deep root watering is the most beneficial for established plantings. If you want to learn more about this procedure, ask the experts.

Stop and visit the Washington Town & Country Fair this year (August 4 - 8). Be sure to visit these two educational areas: the Agri-Land booth (near the livestock barns) and Hillermann’s “Gardening Solutions” (near the Family Activity Tent). They both offer hands on learning opportunities and free handouts on great outdoor gardening activities!

Here are tips for the heat and drought period of August:
• You should apply lawn insecticides until August 15 to guard off grubs, fleas, ticks, etc. in the yard.
• Japanese beetles can be eliminated by trapping. Beetle traps are available and safe/organic to use.
• Think “green” and recycle your planting containers.
• Keep deadheading spent annual and perennial flowers for continued bloom.
• Feed garden mums and asters for the last time.
• Monitor plants for spider mite activity. Hose affected plants off with a forceful spray of water, or spray with Bonide Eight (with Permethrin). To check for spider mites, hold a white piece of paper under a suspected branch. Tap on the branch and then run your hand across the paper. If you get red streaks, you have spider mites!
• Roses should receive no further nitrogen fertilizer after the end of August to prevent the production of late tender growth that could be damaged by fall frosts.
• Soak shrubs periodically during dry spells with enough water to moisten the soil to a depth of 8-10 inches.
• Prune to shape hedges for the last time this season.
• Once bagworms reach full size, insecticides are ineffective. Pruning off and burning or discarding of large bags provides better control.
• Watch for fall webworm activity. Apply Fertilome Bagworm and Tent Caterpillar Spray when spotted.
• Cultivate Strawberries and apply weed preventer immediately, after fertilizing to help with fall germinating weeds such as henbit or chickweed.
• Protect ripening fruits from birds by covering plants with bird netting. This is a black mesh netting and is readily available at Garden Centers.
• Pinch the growing tips of gourds once the adequate fruit set amount is achieved. This directs energy into the ripening fruits, rather than vine production.
• Broccoli, cabbage and cauliflower transplants should be set out for the fall garden. Also, sow seeds of lettuce, radish, beans, beets, spinach and turnips now. (Spinach may germinate better if the seeds are refrigerated.)
• For additional information about garden tips for summer and all seasons, check out this website www.hillermann.com.


Time to go... See you in the Garden!!
Sandi Hillermann McDonald
http://www.hillermann.com/

Garden Solutions - July 2010

Even though the weather outside is not as enticing or enjoyable as it is in the spring of the year, we can still enjoy being outdoors. In addition, there are things that still need to be done in the garden and landscape.

The most important item to consider this time of year, naturally, is water… Provide water to your garden, for not only the perennials, annuals, trees and shrubs, but do it also for the wildlife such as birds, rabbits, and squirrels. This can be done in several different ways. One way would be to install a drip irrigation system. These systems can be installed with tools as simple as a scissors or knife. Timers are also available to take the guesswork out of the project, and the system continues to work even when you are on vacation. This will be extremely important during summer seasons to provide moisture to new and established plantings. Now, Don’t forget the wildlife as well. Birds continue to give us enjoyment with new fledglings arriving as well as their daily antics. Supply water for them in forms of birdbaths, water fountains, or water garden displays. Moving water is a bigger draw for this wildlife activity than still water, and it is safer, too. With moving water, you do not need to worry about mosquitoes and the West Nile Virus.

Now that I have spent time expressing my concern and importance for water during the summer months, let me give you some other tips for the garden…

· Apply the chemical “Permethrin” after July 15th, to guard off grubs, fleas, ticks, etc. in the yard.
· Keep deadheading spent annual flowers for continued bloom.
· DON’T pinch hardy garden mums after mid-July OR you may delay blooming for fall.
· Keep an eye out for powdery mildew and red spider mites this month in the garden. Treat with Copper Fungicide or Malathion insecticide respectively.
· MULCH VOLCANOES KILL!! What this means is that you should NOT build up mulch around your trees with the tip of the volcano up on the tree trunk. In fact, it has to be just the opposite. Put the shallow ring of mulch around the tree trunk and build up a saucer effect of mulch around the outside of the tree ring. This will save the tree in several ways. First, it will not kill off the trunk, and second, it will keep mowers and trimmers from disturbing the trunk bark, which can be devastating to the trees success.
· Bearded irises can be divided at the end of the month. Discard old center sections. Replant so that the tops of the rhizomes are just above the ground level.
· Remember to deep root water established trees and shrubs, as well, during drought conditions.
· Prune out and destroy old fruiting canes of raspberries after harvest is complete.
· Dig potatoes when the tops die and plant fall crops by the 15th.
· Sweet corn is ripe when the silks turn brown.
· For the fall garden, sow seeds of carrots, beets, turnips, winter radish, collards, kale, sweet corn and summer squash as earlier crops are harvested at the end of the month. Also, set out transplants of broccoli, cabbage and cauliflower for the fall garden.

This is also a good time of year to consider water conservation. Here are some water conservation tips for the home and garden:

· Water plants where it counts. Water at the roots of plants not the leaves. Focus on watering more expensive trees and shrubs.
· Stop feeding and fertilizing. Plants and grass that have been fertilized grow faster and consume more water.
· When you mow your grass, cut less frequently and at a higher level. Cutting the lawn short promotes growth, and growth promotes water consumption. Longer grass will shade the ground and stay healthier.
· Cut back on household water use. Place a plastic jug filled with water inside your toilet tank. The sealed jug displaces water and allows the tank to fill up more quickly. Use a half-gallon milk jug for older toilets, and a one-liter soda bottle for newer, low-flow toilets. Keep the jug in place with a string tied around it, secured in place from the weight of the tank lid.
· Plant drought tolerant, native plants. Many native plants are drought and disease resistant and make great additions in your gardens. Once established, these plants will need less water than hybridized varieties. Your local independent garden center can help you choose varieties that will work well for the location of your garden.

For additional garden tips for summer, check out our website at www.hillermann.com.

Time to go… See you in the Garden…
Sandi Hillermann McDonald

Garden Solutions - June 2010

Although I’ve never been accused of being short on words, there is often this blank in my mind about where to start the article. This month I will begin with a reminder that June is National Perennial Gardening Month. Perennials are herbaceous plants that die back to the ground in the winter but return year after year to dazzle us with color.

Past and present Perennials of the Year (these are proven performance perennials that have been named since 1991) are usually great choices for anyone’s garden, as they are tried and true varieties. The 2010 Perennial Plant of the Year is Baptisia australis, commonly known as Blue false indigo. It grows three to four feet tall and three to four feet wide in an upright habit. This exceptional perennial grows across a wide range of zones and is one of the most adaptable native species. We are in planting zone 6, so it is always important to check that bit of information as well, on all plants you plan to leave from year to year in your yard. Check the Perennial Plant Association website at http://www.perennialplant.org/ for perennial plants of the year since 1991 plus gardening tips.

Here are 10 quick tips to Fabulous Perennials:
1. Begin by preparing the soil
2. Choose plants carefully, sun vs. shade, etc.
3. Purchase plants that can establish in one season.
4. Space perennials to give them room to grow.
5. Fertilize
6. Mulch
7. Control weeds
8. Control insects
9. Additionally, clean up the beds each season. Enjoy!!

Well, June is also the month of graduations, weddings, vacations, Father’s Day, and the beginning of summer. This is the month that we all begin to spend more of our free time out of doors, enjoying our gardens and the fruits of our labors from the last 3 months, (plus). If all of you have kept up with your tasks, then this month should be easy. However, if you are like me, June will be a month you can get caught up.

The first task that we need to do this month is to get the spring flowering trees and shrubs trimmed. Flowering crabapples, serviceberry, dogwoods, magnolias, lilacs and viburnums all set their buds for next years’ flower on the new growth they develop this year. These plants should be pruned now to encourage new growth and therefore flower buds for next year. It is recommended that you complete the pruning of these plants by early this month.

Here are other garden tips for June:

• Watch for the outbreak of bagworms on garden plants, especially junipers. Then spray affected plants with Permethrin sold under the label ‘Eight’.
• Deadhead bulbs and spring perennials as blossoms fade.
• Repeat plantings of corn and beans to extend the harvest season.
• Fertilize Zoysia grass now while it is actively growing.
• Renovate strawberries after harvest. plow the rows; thin out excess plants; remove weeds; fertilize and apply mulch for weed control.
• Spray roses with a fungicide to prevent black spot disease and fertilize monthly.
• Continue pinching back your garden mums till July 4th to promote full, bushy growth and good fall color.
• Water turf as needed to prevent drought stress, and watch for fungus problems.
• Mow lawns frequently enough to remove no more than one-third the total height per mowing.
• Continue enjoying the antics of the wildlife in your yard and gardens by continuing to supply food and water sources for them.
• Change hummingbird nectar at least weekly to prevent fungus from growing. You can make your own nectar using 1 part sugar to 4 parts water---no food coloring please!
• Move houseplants outside for the summer. Place plants in areas with dappled shade and some protection from hot summer winds.
• Rejuvenate your older lilacs by cutting back to one third of the largest branches. This will create a fuller, more lush specimen.
• Orioles (if you were lucky enough to keep them around) begin building a gray woven nest; this takes about a week.
• Watch for birds carrying food to their young.
• Gray squirrels begin a second breeding.

Are you late getting planting started in your garden this year? YOU ARE NOT ALONE! As busy as we were this May, and as wet as the weather was, many people have commented that they haven’t even begun their planting. That’s okay—you still have plenty of time. Plant selections should still be pretty strong at independent garden centers. Fully enjoy your garden; it is the only true place to connect you to Mother Nature.

See you in the Garden……………..
Sandi Hillermann McDonald

Garden Solutions - May 2010

A SAMPLE GUIDE TO EDIBLE GARDENING

Growing your own food can be a fun and satisfying activity that can nourish your body and your soul. Homegrown veggies and fruits can be more flavorful and nutritious than store-bought produce. Some people might think they don’t have the time to dedicate to an edible garden, but it can easily fit into ANY busy schedule. Once planted, an average-sized edible garden will require less than fifteen minutes a day to maintain. Most seasoned vegetable gardeners look forward to their time spent in their garden, because the rewards are so great! And the therapy it provides is even better!! Your local independent garden center can provide you with all the plants and know how to make your garden a valuable, money saving asset for your home.

When it comes to location, choose the sunniest spot in your yard. Most edible plants prefer 6 or more hours of sun, although leaf veggies (like lettuce) can grow with less sunlight. Consider container gardens if you have a bright deck or patio. Edibles can also be incorporated into your flowerbeds and ornamental plantings as well. Be sure the area has good circulation or airflow.

When possible, raised beds offer ideal growing conditions for vegetables. This is done by mounding soil 8-12” high with or without framing it with wood or blocks. Soil in raised beds heats up faster and produces a crop more quickly. If these beds are high enough, they may even deter dogs and rabbits from visiting, but be ready to put up screening or fencing if necessary. It also offers better drainage and reduces root rot. A raised garden bed should be no wider than 4’ to allow for easy access from both sides.

The key ingredient to a vegetable garden is the soil foundation. Amend the topsoil with compost, such as Black Gold (which is Missouri Botanical Garden Compost produced in St Louis!). Well-rotted manure and humus are also suitable for adding to the existing soil.

Base your crop selection on what your family likes to eat. Choose from your local garden center’s selection of plants, which are known to be well suited for your area. Many independent garden centers trail most of their offerings to ensure that they will be successful in your garden too!

Plant your tall crops (like corn and climbers) on the north side of the garden to prevent them from shading the other shorter plants. Plant medium sized plants (like peppers, tomatoes….) towards the center. Short crops, like carrots, radishes, and lettuce, should be planted on the south end. Try to orient your garden from north to south for best sun coverage.

Here is a sample plant list for a healthy family of four:

10 tomato plants
2 for munching (grape or cherry)
2 for cooking (Roma)
2 for slicing (Better Boy, Celebrity…….)
2 for colorful salads (Lemonboy…..)
2 for conversation (Mr. Stripey or other Heirlooms…..)
4 cucumber plants
12 broccoli plants
8 cauliflower plants
20 lettuce plants
6 pepper plants
3 pumpkin plants
10 spinach plants
2 zucchini or squash plants

Essential herbs
-basil
-oregano
-parsley
-rosemary
-thyme
-cilantro
-dill
-bay
-french tarragon
-mint (very vigorous, so grow in a container!)
-fennel (for you and the butterflies!)

Other essentials…………….
Compost
Shovel, hard rake and tiller
Fertilizer—natural/organic or commercial
Tomato cages, stakes

I truly hope you enjoy the spring and summer season and try your hand a growing fresh produce for your family. Here is a recipe you can try using your fresh produce:

Sweet and Sour Coleslaw:

1 large head cabbage, shredded
1 large onion, chopped
1 large green pepper, chopped
1 cup sugar + 1 Tbsp. sugar
1 tsp. salt
1 tsp. celery seed
1 cup cider vinegar
¾ cup salad oil

Combine the cabbage, onion and green pepper in a bowl. Pour the 1 cup of sugar over the mixture. Let set in refrigerator covered for 4 hours or overnight. Boil together 1 Tbsp. sugar, salt, celery seed, vinegar and salad oil. Let mixture cool. Mix with slaw ½ to 1 hour before serving. Bon appétit!

Don’t forget that Mother’s Day will be here soon and garden plants make great gifts for Mom and Grandma. Plants, Gods natural creations of beauty, will continue to give throughout the season!


See you next month,
Sandi Hillermann McDonald

Garden Solutions - April 2010

BREATHE! It is something we all have been doing since the doctor gave us that first slap on the behind the day we were born. It is something we do 24 hours a day every day of our lives, even while we sleep. We don’t even have to think about it. Maybe that is part of our problem. The first thing I do each morning after I shut off the alarm clock is to take 5 long, slow, deep breaths and think about each one. It really refreshes the mind and senses. As the day progresses and things happen that begin to build the stress level, I repeat my morning ritual, and the problems almost solve themselves. What does this have to do with your landscape? What better place to think about and practice breathing then out in your garden. Notice the clean fresh air following a spring thunderstorm, or the fragrance of all the flowers in your landscape. Enjoy relaxing deep breaths after you have finished mowing your lawn. The next time you feel the stress starting to build; somebody just cut you off on your drive to work; the kids are yelling and arguing; the weeds seem to be the only thing growing in your landscape; just breathe. Try it! I’ll bet that it will make you feel better and you will continue it as a habit!

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.

The lengthening of daylight also seems to brighten peoples’ spirits and relieve some stress as we can now move outdoors and enjoy what Mother Nature has to offer. So, I invite you to go outside and “dig in.” Here are tips to help you get started:

· Remove winter mulch from your rose bushes. Trim out dead and diseased canes. Cut all other green wood to about 18” above the ground on Floribunda and tea rose varieties. A 24-30” height is good on shrub roses (such as the Knock Out rose bush).

· Fertilize your roses with a slow release fertilizer and begin fungicide treatments to control black spot disease.

· When Crabapples are in bloom, hardy annuals can be planted.

· Transplant trees, shrubs, and perennials early in the month for best results. This includes moving plants you already have established in your yard that need to be moved to a new location.

· 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. Talk to a professional about seed choices and proper procedures.

· Easter lilies can be planted after they finish blooming. Set the bulbs 2-3” deeper then they are in the pot. They are generally hardy here and can take full sun.

· Liquid weed control should be applied early this month to control dandelions, henbit, and other broadleaf weeds. New grass in recently seeded areas MUST have grown enough to be mowed three times before it is strong enough to be treated with weed chemicals.

· Prune spring flowering shrubs after they finish blooming.

· Asparagus and rhubarb harvests begin. Keep your hoe sharp!

· Start cucumber, squash, cantaloupe and watermelon seeds indoors this month for late May/early June planting outside.

· Shrubs such as Crepe Myrtle, Butterfly Bush, and Hardy Hibiscus can be pruned back to green wood this month. REMINDER - these plants leaf out very late (early May) and should not be considered dead, or be replaced until after Mother’s Day.

· Termites begin swarming. Termites can be distinguished from ants by their thick waists and straight antennae. Ants have slender waists and elbowed antennae.

· Apply Bayer Advance Insect Control this month to control borers in shade trees and shrubs.

· Remove old tree wraps from trees planted last fall so they do not create a place for insects to harbor.

· Mole young are born in chambers deep underground.

· Protect bees and other pollinating insects. Do not spray insecticides on fruit trees that are in bloom. Bees are in danger and it is very important to be careful around them. In fact, check out nature friendly products readily available in garden centers when needing to do insect treatments.

· Ornamental Pear trees need to be sprayed with Streptemycin “during” the flowering stage to prevent “Fire Blight” disease.

· Water gardens may be cleaned out and the water changed. Do not scrub the walls since this will remove accumulated beneficial bacteria. Begin adding additional bacteria and barley bales now to begin the natural cycle of pond clean-up. Have questions, call a professional for assistance.

· 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 begin to be planted outdoors now.

· Container gardening is a 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 a wave of the future… keep your family safe and check out what organic options are available to you when gardening this year. There are many.

Well, time is running short with much to do…see you in the garden

Sandi Hillermann McDonald