May

May is the month of roses or at least it is in my garden. Since most of the roses I grow are old roses, their most dramatic flush of bloom takes place now. But it is not just roses that makes the month of May so wonderful. Perennials and shrubs are usually outstanding and the air is perfumed with the heavy scent of privet. It is truly a time when gardening defiantly pays off!

 

Plants of Interest

roses iris peony fringe tree hydrangeas clematis honeysuckle

wisteria columbine wild columbine hollyhocks siberian iris beard tongue astilbe spiderwort

caladium coleus dianthus coreopsis foxglove verbena evening primrose catmint

What to Plant

container shrubs, vines, perennials - plant with caution and be sure to keep new plants watered well.

annuals

vegetables

 

Fertilize

flowering shrubs (fertilize azaleas and other early blooming shrubs immediately after they have bloomed)

roses - fertilizer every two weeks with liquid fertilizer.

vegetables - fertilize tomatoes and peppers every five to six weeks with liquid fertilizer.

annuals - fertilize every two weeks with liquid fertilizer

 

water

May can be very dry so be sure to keep new plants watered well. Most plants should get at least one inch of water per week. Buy a good sprinkler and a rain gauge. A water timer is also a very good idea for those with tight schedules. The best times to water is in the early morning or late afternoon. Vegetables should only be watered in the morning hours to avoid fungal diseases.

lawns

Now is the time to sod warm season grasses like Zoysia and Bermuda. Daily watering will be a must!

mulch

A thick layer of pine bark mulch, pine straw or other material will not only conserve precious moisture but also decrease weeds.

pinching

Pinch buds off chrysanthemums to increase flowers and bushiness of the plants for fall.