Landscapes in May
Planting Annuals | Planting Perennials | Fertilizing | Protecting Trees | Weed Control | Birds | Protecting Plants
Planting Annuals in May
The last (anticipated) frost date for Planting Zone 6 (us) is May 20. This date is when it should be safe to plant virtually all annual flowers and vegetables in the ground. Above-ground planting (pots, boxes, raised beds, hanging baskets have all been a go since late April, as long as you’re vigilant and will protect them if we have a cold overnight. Bear in mind that when planting annuals outdoors, soil temperature is as important as air temperature. If you plant your annuals into soil that is colder than the environment they’re accustomed to, the roots will go into shock, and growth will be set back significantly. Planting into warm soil is immensely important in getting the best results.
Planting Perennials in May
Go for it. The Lawn Depot Nursery Yard is filled with a terrific variety and supply of thriving perennials. Our professional staff are ready and waiting to help you pick the right perennials for your situation.
Fertilizing Young Trees, Shrubs, Perennials, and Bulbs in May
First, ALWAYS use dry (granular or formed solid) fertilizers for plants that live from year to year. Water soluble fertilizers are for annuals which will die in the fall anyway, so stimulate them all you can now. This type of fertilizer will harm permanent plants. Shrubs, perennials, ground covers and bulbs should be fed with slow-release (either natural organic or synthetic slow-release granules) fertilizers in the spring (at the beginning of the growing season) and the late fall (the end of the season). Trees (less than 5-6 years in their present location) and large shrubs are best fed with formed fertilizer spikes. Using a crowbar or strong wooden stake, poke holes at the dripline of the plant, 12-15” into the soil, use 3 spikes for every 2” of tree caliper/shrub height, and drop the fertilizer into the holes. Leave the holes open; whether in mulch or lawn. They’ll fill in naturally.
Protecting Trees & Shrubs from Insects and Diseases, Season-Long
Now is the time to apply one of the excellent, season-long insect and disease controlling products available for young trees and most shrubs. These systemic pesticides are safe in the environment, long-lasting, and wide spectrum, so the homeowner can be confident that valuable plants will not be bothered by insects or diseases. Ask in the Garden Center for the specific products that will be best for your situation.
Weed Control in Landscaped Areas
Mulch looks good when first applied, and it helps control weeds if applied at depths of 3-4” (cumulative). However, lots of weeds can germinate in landscaped areas in or on top of the mulch. To help control this, we advise that you apply Garden Weed Preventer as you apply the mulch in the early spring, and then apply follow-up layers every 6 weeks through July. Weed prevention product manufacturers may claim “season-long” control, but we, who live in the real world, believe that, for best results, you should apply these products on the surface every 6 weeks through July.
Birds & Beneficial Creatures
Wouldn’t it be great to have a natural way to keep insects like ants, ticks, flies, gnats and mosquitoes in check in your yards? Did you know that many birds eat these insects? Bluebirds, robins and purple martins to name a few. Why not encourage them to stay around your yard by putting up bird houses and feeders for them? Not only will they help with pest control, but they are beautiful to watch too! NOW is the time to attract hummingbirds to your yard. They have already been spotted and will be looking to establish their territory for feeding for the season. These beautiful creatures are graceful and so amazing to watch.
We have a nice selection of feeders, poles, baffles, houses, and a wide variety of bird food mixes and straight products. Come on in and take a look at our line of excellent birding products. We also carry bat houses for those of you who would like a natural way to combat mosquitoes and beneficial bee and insect houses to help with pests and pollination of annuals, vegetables, etc.
Protecting Plants from Damage
Many of you have already been dealing with plant damage caused by deer and rabbits. Yes, we know they’re cute, but they can wreak havoc on the tender new plant growth that spring brings. We recommend regular applications of deer repellent sprays and/or granules for all vulnerable plants. Most repellents list the number of days they last “up to”. This is the manufacturers estimate. Many things affect the timeframe these products should be reapplied. Rain is the main factor. It is best to err on the side of earlier rather than later, as it is more difficult to attain control if active feeding has already begun. The garden center has a large selection of various types of repellents to choose from for deer, rabbits, etc. Our knowledgeable staff is here to help you choose the product that will work best for your situation. Don’t wait until it’s too late!
We look forward to our continued relationship this spring with all of you who make our jobs so enjoyable. Now in our 48th year, we’re stronger than ever, in both the Garden Center and Turf Management, and we owe it all to you, the best and most loyal customers on earth. Thanks.