April 2006
It's the middle of April and I don't have to tell you, a gardener's thoughts
turn to planting. May will bring in a planting frenzy. Hardy perennials can
be planted now, provided they have been hardened off. Any plants should be hardened
off if they come out of a greenhouse. Hardening off a plant simply means exposing
it to the elements little by little so it can adjust and toughen up before going
for the long haul of the Colorado clime.
The crew will be going down to Pueblo and Canyon City before the end of April
to shop. And, of course, I'll be checking out the local nurseries and getting
my lists organized.
Water is the biggest factor in young plant survival and transplanting success.
So far this year has virtually no "April Showers" to get us off to
a good start. Because we are semi arid foothill areas to begin with, we need
to help out the natural precipitation. Having said that, we should all restrain
ourselves and use our water resources wisely. Plants that are potted need more
water than plants in the ground, often daily. For plants in the garden, deep
watering pulls the roots down into the soil where it stays cooler and moister.
Too much water often creates wimpy plants. Make those roots chase that water
down! Amended and mulched beds will also have lower water needs.
Please call if you would like to make an appointment to walk through your gardens
on consultation or discuss summer pots or if you have questions or concerns.