By Darlene Underwood
This time of year brings beautiful weather to the Coast, which is perfect for being outdoors and getting our hands dirty. As we head into a new season, there are plenty of tasks to take care of in our gardens.
Although most gardening calendars recommend cleaning up last year’s debris, a host of insects and pollinators are still residing in the dead wood and stems. Wait a few more weeks until it warms up enough for them to emerge from their winter slumber.
And speaking of pollinators, wildflower areas are encouraged to feed and shelter these amazing creatures. Plan now to include native wildflowers in at least a small area of your yard or garden. In Mississippi we have a large and diverse selection to enhance our environment. Start with a small section, and as plants multiply, move them, or let them reseed to enlarge their life-giving space.
Several years ago, I stopped mowing a low-lying area of our property. Each spring, summer and fall, I have been repaid generously with beautiful flowers that not only give me joy, but feed the pollinators, birds and small creatures that reside close by.
OTHER GARDENING CHORES AND TIPS FOR THIS TIME OF YEAR INCLUDE:
- Water evergreen plants thoroughly when a freeze is predicted. Plants still need moisture to survive a freeze.
- Maintain a two- to three-inch layer of mulch over the root systems of trees and shrubs to retain moisture and reduce weeds. In areas where you want last year’s annuals to germinate, reduce mulch to one inch.
- Plant or transplant trees or shrubs now while they are dormant. This gives the plant time to grow a sturdy root system before its energy is needed for spring budding.
- Test soil and plan for needed adjustments for the upcoming growing season. Mississippi State University Extension Service has a soil testing lab, and local Extension offices in each county have boxes and collection information. The testing cost is nominal.
- If soil additives such as peat, compost or manure are needed, order or pick up supplies and plan your approach. The latest research reveals that trees will benefit from fertilizer spread on top of the ground to two feet beyond the expanse of their branches. Most feeder roots are within a few inches of soil.
- The end of February to the first week of March is the ideal time to fertilize camellias, fruit trees, shrubs, vines and ground covers. Pecan trees need a fertilizer containing zinc.
- Fertilize palms and sagos with a special palm food that contains magnesium and other essential nutrients. Poor nutrition is one of the main problems for palms in our area.
- Rejuvenate liriope and Aztec grass by cutting with the highest blade setting on your mower. Water and fertilize to jumpstart spring growth.
Happy gardening!
Darlene Underwood is a Mississippi master gardener, nationally accredited flower show judge and Garden Clubs of Mississippi third vice president. Reach her at darlene.underwood@att.net.