Gardening Rules Won't Apply

When it’s officially spring but doesn’t feel that way, plant away!

By Master Gardener Dianne Peters-Nickerson // Sankofa Farm & Nursery

On March 21, spring officially arrived.  However, weather and temperatures haven't cooperated. 

We had snow, harsh winds and below average temperatures well into April.  But, I wasn't deterred from getting my garden party started! 

I dug up and transplanted Peonies, Hellebores, Daylilies, Bleeding Heart, Siberian Iris and Ligularia.  Yes, I did!  I dug deeply to maintain the root structure, amended the soil with compost, and watered well afterwards. 

There are gardening "rules" that say what I did was wrong, but my flowers are growing very well.  I added Garden Trust fertilizer three days after the transplant and watered. On to other things...

You still have time to prune rose shrubs, Hydrangeas and plants you forgot about, so do it now. I add Garden Trust and compost to them at the beginning of March every year and they grow well.

Cool weather crops like peas, greens and lettuce can be planted. Houseplants can be fertilized now, although I use a quarter dose of fertilizer during the dormant season once a month.  Lawns can be fertilized now. I use Lawn Trust which has given me excellent results. Milorganite, a lawn fertilizer, will also deter deer.  Check your local nursery garden centers for these products. 

Also, I planted some spring blooming bulbs and expect to see results around mid-June. Always remember to amend your flower beds/soil with compost to replace nutrients that were used last growing season.  

At my new home, the birds love us!  Remember to feed and give water to our feathered friends.

Until next time....