It's Time to Think About Gardening
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By Susan Hamilton
Even though the weather outside may still be frightful on any given day, it is not too early to get started on getting your yard and garden in shape for the coming warm weather. And we have just the person to help you get that head start, our resident horticulturist Susan Hamilton. Susan has been kind enough to give us the following garden tips for March. Thanks Susan! P.S. Did you see her great article in the News-Sentinel? Don't let the big beautiful shade trees in your yard hide your beautiful historic home! Now is a great time, before the trees leaf out and you can still easily see their framework, to selectively prune limbs which block the view of your house. Start by looking at the lowest limbs of the tree and see if by removing them it improves the view of your home. If you cannot walk or easily mow under the limbs of big, old trees, then they (the limbs) should be removed. Next, see if there are any limbs which can be removed within the heart of the tree which would thin or open up the canopy of the tree allowing for a better view. This can be done without altering the shape or beauty of the tree. Selectively pruning a tree can be positive for the tree and improve the aesthetic value of your property. Never top a tree!!!!! If you are not sure about pruning your trees but feel it would help, I will be happy to lend a neighborly hand. As a member of our neighborhood, I would be happy to offer free advice. You can reach me at 521-9590. Now through April is an ideal time to apply a combination of slow-release fertilizer and pre-emergent herbicide for crabgrass control to your lawn. You want to apply this combination before dandelions reach the puff-ball stage. The fertilizer will boost the growth of your lawn and have it looking great for spring and the herbicide will prevent crabgrass. Numerous brands are on the market and which ever you select, be sure to follow label directions. If you are not planning to use a pre-emergent herbicide for weed control, you can overseed your lawn to thicken thin or bare spots. march is an ideal time to fertilize all the plants in your garden; perennials, trees, shrubs, evergreens, and groundcovers. Select a balanced, granular fertilizer recommended for the plants you want to feed and be sure to follow label instructions. (Susan Hamilton, Ed.D. is an Assistant Professor with the Department of Ornamental Horticulture & Landscaping Design at the University of Tennessee. She is also a resident of Old North Knoxville and serves on its board.) |