Preparing for Spring

Hello folks!


We are almost into February. This is the start of the gardening season in zone 9. My county extension office states that our average last frost date is February 17th. Now is the time to start tomatoes, peppers, and eggplants indoors so they will be ready to transplant into the garden in 5 - 6 weeks. I'll be planting cool season crops by the end of the month. Hardy root crops, Asian greens, collards, and Swiss chard can be direct seeded in the garden. Cabbage, broccoli, lettuce, onions, and Brussel sprouts can be transplanted to the garden after hardening off, if you have started them indoors. Also, potatoes that have been sprouted can be planted.


For landscape plants, now is the time to prune deciduous trees and plants. For small trees like crepe myrtle, redbud, and dogwood... prune to create a strong framework by taking out trunks and limbs that cross or rub each other. Cut close to the main stem to prevent new sprouts. Try to resist the temptation to just top crepe myrtle. This actually creates weak branches that can't support themselves when in full bloom. Liriope ( monkey grass) and other ornamental grasses should be cut close to the ground, while they aren't growing. This will refresh the plant and prevent having blades with cut tips, that will stay for the rest of the year. I'll be cutting down the tender plants that were killed by our freezes. It doesn't have to be done now, but I just don't like the looks of the dead ones.


Wait to prune spring bloomers like azaleas and loropetalums until after they bloom. Also, azaleas shouldn't be pruned after the 4th of July ( that's what my grandmother taught me ). This is when they start forming blooms for the next year. If you feel that you just have to prune, be selective and prune very lightly.


Be sure to rake up the last of your leaves and save them to use as mulch in your beds. In my opinion, leaves are the best mulch one can use. They decompose fairly quickly, adding a slow release of nutrients to the soil....and earthworms love them!




Soooo......Until next time......HAPPY GARDENING!