Summer is the season to enjoy the fruits and beauty of your spring gardening projects. The summer months go by so fast. While it’s time to enjoy the beauty of the season, there are still things to do in the yard and garden. Here is my summer check list of things to do.
Veggie Garden
You can keep sowing seeds for autumn crops such as peas, beans, and carrots. The youngsters like that duty – another reason for them to play in the dirt. Don’t forget to pick and dry herbs from your garden to use next winter!
Tomatoes are best picked when fully colored and green peppers may be picked at any stage but will turn red if left on the plant for several weeks. Pick your veggies at optimal size and color.
If you are not growing your own vegetables be sure to visit a farmers market for fresh locally grown produce. Untiedt’s Farm Market is now open in the parking lot of our Minneapolis location.
Flower beds
Keep deadheading faded blossoms. Plants with large blooms like geraniums, roses, and dahlia will particularly benefit from that.
Watch for black spot on roses and remove affected leaves. Spray with fungicide in early morning while it is cooler to avoid stressing the plants.
Don’t be afraid to cut flowers for indoor bouquets. Cutting annual flowers encourages more blooms.
Mulch will help control weeds and increase moisture which means you will have to water less. As the mulch slowly breaks down, it improves the soil too.
We’ve started receiving reports of Japanese beetles in the area. They most often will eat apple, linden and birch trees, roses and canna but can be found on a wide range of plants. The best thing to do is set traps at distance away from your garden.
Planters and Containers
Get more flowers on your container and hanging basket annuals by applying liquid fertilizer once every 10-14 days. A little feed will give the plants and flowers a much-needed summer boost. Remember to never fertilize very dry plants.
Lawns
Raise your lawn mower so that after the grass is cut it’s about 4” long. Longer grass shades the ground, which keeps it cooler and means you will have to water less to keep it green.
Lawns and flower beds need at least one inch of water per week. Ideally it is delivered during one watering and not multiple short waterings. Deep watering encourages root growth.
If you have out of town visitors or are looking for something to do this summer, visit the MN Arboretum in Chanhassen. It will inspire you with all the beautiful flowers and plants.
Just enjoy your garden!
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