Mrs. Greenthumb, Daryl Pulis

Lawn and Garden Calendar

A month-by-month list of things to do for a better landscape

January  

Lawns - Control winter weeds by hand pulling or a wiper application of an approved herbicide.  Always read and follow label directions.

Have lawn mower serviced if you mow your own lawn, or start looking Now for someone to do it. Check with neighbors, friends, and the Metro Atlanta Landscape and Turf Association for recommendations.

 http://www.malta-inc.org/

Trees and Shrubs - Both container grown and bare root deciduous plants can be planted when the ground is not frozen.

Make sure to keep new plants watered.

If you have newly planted evergreens, and it’s dry and windy, you may need to protect them from the wind.

Be prepared to protect tender plants in case of a hard freeze.

 Flowers - Get those leftover bulbs planted now!

Order seed and perennial catalogs and order early. See http://davesgarden.com/gwd/  to check out sources.

Check plants for frost heaving. Tamp back into place and water.

Cut back Pampas and other ornamental grasses when they look tatty.

Plan new garden beds now.

 Fruits and Vegetables - If you didn’t plant a cover crop, turn your soil to destroy insects and weeds. Don’t work soil when it’s wet – wait until it breaks up after you gently squeeze a handful and drop it from shoulder height.

Order fruit trees and berry bushes.See  http://www.caes.uga.edu/publications/ or your local Cooperative Extension Service for good varieties and http://davesgarden.com/gwd/  for  reliable 
 

 www.MrsGreenThumb.com     Fine Garden Designs and Advice for the Do-it-Yourself Homeowner