MAY OFFERS MANY GARDENING ACTIVITIES
May is finally here, and it is a perfect month to get outside and do some gardening. Before I get into the tasks for May, just be aware of watering. April was relatively dry. We are entering May under abnormally dry conditions. Thank goodness the last week of April cooled down and delivered us some rain. But we need more. Our plants are growing and leafing out and need water. We have had better seasons in past years, and we have experienced worse. We just have to deal with what Mother Nature gives us and learn to adjust our gardening habits to care for our plants.
As of April 28th, our soil temperature is 60 degrees. This soil temperature makes planting in May ideal.
HERE ARE SOME HELPFUL GARDENING CHORES AND THOUGHTS FOR MAY
- With May – it is now safe to plant summer annuals and vegetables.
- Birds have 5 basic needs: food, water, shelter from hot and cold weather, nesting sites, and protection from predators. Supply these and you will have many more birds around your home.
- Grass clippings can be used as mulch in flower beds and vegetable gardens if allowed to dry well before use. Never use clippings from a lawn that has been treated with a herbicide!!
- Pinch flowering annuals when 4 to 6 inches high to promote bushy growth such as zinnias, petunias, and salvia.
- Water your vegetable garden in the morning so plants have time to dry before the cool of the evening.
- Memorial Day is Monday, May 25. We can always plant red, white, and blue flowers and display our American flag to honor all our service men and women.
IT’S MAY SO BE SURE TO PLANT A LITTLE HAPPINESS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!