08/19/2013
What to do in Your Garden In August
Summer's Not Over Yet
By August most gardeners are busy on vacations or just enjoying the fruits of their spring outdoor labor. But if you are feeling the itch to squeeze some dirt between your fingers there are lots of rewarding activities, to say nothing of important tasks to get ready for the fall.
This hasn't been a great year for tomatoes but there is still time to plant a last crop of green leafy vegetables. Mustard, chard, cilantro, spinach and lettuce for example can be planted all through summer in sunny locations.
Time for Trees and Shrubs
Late summer is a great time to be working on your trees and shrubs. Consider doing some pruning of your existing trees now that most of the summer growth is done. Prune your azaleas and rhododendrons. Many popular shrubs can get out of control if they aren't kept to reasonable size by pruning so do it now.
Prepare to prune fruit trees after the final harvest in August or September.
Water, water, water
This has been a dry, hot summer in our area. The weather bureau declared California a drought area. Keep up your watering and consider planting more drought tolerant plants for next year. All predictions are that the future will be dryer. Have you checked your irrigation system for leaks lately? The heat at this time of year is especially stressful for many plants so keep them moist.
Your lawn will be especially needy of water at this time. Be sure to thoroughly water any new plantings and keep them watered until cooler fall temperatures. Trees and shrubs need regular watering in the heat of summer. Finally consider a layer of mulch to hold in the water and replace sprayers with bubblers since they use water much more efficiently.
What About Flowers?
Summer annuals can still deliver four more months of color. Consider planting marigolds, petunias, cleome, salpiglossis, zinnias, lobelia, bedding dahlias, alyssum, cosmos, fibrous begonias, and ageratum. Monthly fertilizing with plenty of iron and sulfur will keep your annuals blooming. Slugs and snails or busy this time of year. Ask us about the best pest control for your needs.
If you want to replant your bulbs next year now is the time to dig them up. Clean and dry the bulbs then store them in your refrigerator for at least 8 weeks. Always store them in paper bags, never plastic, to prevent mildew.
Looking for other August planting ideas? Stop by Roger Reynolds and ask us for recommendations specific to your needs.