May Tips

Plant Annuals and Vegetable Plants

Mid May to the first of June is the time to plant annuals and vegetable plants. A rule of thumb is plant after the May 24 weekend when all danger of frost is past. Generally its wise to plant pepper plants later in the month when the soil has warmed up considerably. When planting tomato plants that are stretched bury them up to the first set of leaves. The buried stem will grow additional roots to strengthen the plant all season.

Planting Bulbs

At the beginning of May plant your Dahlias, lilies, canna, and gladiola bulbs. Insure that the soil is workable, that is not too wet and cold.. If the soil is too wet and cold plant the bulbs in a one gallon nursery container for transplanting later in the month. Early May is the time to plant onion sets and sow spinach and peas.

Spring Bulb Care

By the end of May, the leaves of early blooming varieties of daffodil, tulip, crocus have turned yellowish brown and withered. Now is the time to cut back the leaves. Do not cut back green firm foliage but rather allow the nutrients to return to the bulb. This allows the bulbs to “size up” for another repeat bloom next spring. Bulbs can be dug up and stored in a dry dark cool area or left in the ground. Be careful not to cut or wound the bulbs when planting annuals and perennials.

Container Gardening

Container gardening continues to be a major trend in the fascinating world of horticulture. With just a few well-chosen plants, a distinctive container, and a minimum amount of effort, you can instantly transform entranceways, patios, decks and walkways into a beautiful garden. The selection and combination of plants and containers is endless. Container gardening continues to grow as it makes the most of limited space and time. Using containers of varying sizes, can fill tight corners, and disguise unwanted views. Containers are easy to move around and relocate to create an ever changing layout.

Water Features

A water feature does not have to be an elaborate costly pond with falls, fish and aquatic plants. A simple statuary fountain or small pond in a raised planter can act as a focal point or anchor in a small garden or patio. The sound of trickling water adds another dimension of interest to your landscape. If building a water feature using natural stone, stick to one type and color of stone. Lighting in small spaces gives the feeling of a larger garden or feature in the evenings.