SHORTER DAYS OF sunlight signal time to transition houseplants for cooler weather and get those that have spent several long months outside ready to return indoors for winter. 1. Plan Decide how many plants can be reasonably accommodated indoors. Are pots easily maneuvered? If not, consider dividing, or giving away to churches, charities or friends/family. …
It’s time to prepare summer gardens for fall. This summer has been an exercise in patience. At least cloudy skies make cooler temperatures. The current warm season will continue for another couple of months. This checklist will have your plantings in fine form for milder months ahead. 1. Support: More common in large mixed beds, …
Want colorful plants that can stand the heat? Undeterred by the searing summers, here are top 10 warm-season plants that can be grown now. Plus, it’s a fun learning activity to keep kids occupied and engaged before school resumes. Undeterred by the searing heat of summer, here are top 10 warm-season plants that can be …
June temperatures are approaching too-hot-to-bother for many gardening enthusiasts. But consider investigating those areas of the yard or garden that aren’t performing well. Vines, ground covers, and ornamental grasses could be the perfect summer solutions for your garden. Vines need support but are fast growing. You can choose between two characteristics: twining or clinging. Twining …
Let’s talk about weeds. The best weed control is utilizing best practices for growing lush lawns: fertilizing, mowing, and watering. Fertilizing The first application of fertilizer is usually mid-April to mid-May. Tax day is a good benchmark. Look for 3-1-2 ratios of N-P-K (Nitrogen-Phosphorus-Potassium). Those are the small numbers usually under the product name. Slow …
LONGER HOURS OF sunlight beckon unhurried strolls through many of the most spectacular landscapes our region has to offer. Bring your mask and consider visiting one or all of the following venues in April. Enjoying local treasures in the great outdoors should not be missed. Covington Garden Club’s Annual Flower Show “Happiness is Homemade,” Apr …
PRUNING IS ONE of those necessary gardening tasks that often goes awry or is intentionally neglected for fear of doing it wrong. No need for concern! Follow these Pruning Made Simple guidelines to get it right. 1. What is the intended goal? Overgrown holly bush along the driveway scratching the car? Leggy growth after hydrangeas …
HOW MANY OF us can name a month of the year by what is blooming? Holly berries in December, camellias in January, paperwhites in February, azaleas in March and the list goes on. Perennial gardening can offer repeat displays over multiple years. Perennials are plants that live more than three years. Trees, shrubs, bulbs and …
WINTER GRAYS AND damp ground can make for dull days. Did you know houseplants are reported to improve concentration, boost one’s mood, and lower stress? Most houseplants are natives of shady, tropical locations that are adapted to grow within our homes and can be found for sale in big box stores or even your favorite …
Tips from a Louisiana Master Gardener If shrubs and trees weren’t pruned last month, and Hurricane Zeta didn’t do it for you, there is still time to do so this month. December’s climate in southeast Louisiana is mild with sufficient rainfall. Now is an optimal time to add a new tree, or transplant an existing …
Just when you thought gardening was over for the year, think again! November is an excellent time to plant a variety of greenery. Planting shrubs in November affords root systems to become fully established before summer’s heat. Nurseries are more quiet this time of year and staff can more readily answer questions. Thoroughly prepare the …
October signals the celebration of harvest season and all things orange, yellow, and red. If you were one of the brave souls to plant pumpkin seeds in late June or early July and summer rains didn’t wash them away, you should have a lovely yield. If not, visit some of the sites below–we won’t judge! …
