Gardening Tip s for Generation BOOMERS
by Marnie Brennan
Bulbs for any Garden
There are few flowers that are as recognizable and striking as the Tulip. The new out-of-the-ordinary shapes and colors have increasingly inspired gardeners to plant more of them in the garden. It should also be noted that many other types of fall planting bulbs have gained new interest in the landscape. For those who struggle with rabbits and other large pests, gardeners are finding that Daffodils are not only beautiful, but are left untouched. Spring blooming bulbs are also easy keepers requiring water only when they are actively growing, and there fertilizer needs are the same. What a wonderful way to bring spring color into your garden.
This column will only cover the bulbs that need to be planted in the fall; so they will get the chill required for blooming. They include Tulips, Daffodils, Hyacinths, Crocus, Fritillaries and Iris are a just a few, but these are the most recognizable varieties.
Tulips
Tulips are the quintessential spring flower. The standard elegant tulip has provided color and style for many gardeners, but now there are fringed petal, variegated leaves, and multi petal tulips to pick from. The important thing to keep in mind is that many varieties of tulips will need to be replanted each season. For those who want to have a reliable bulb, pick those that are marked as Darwin Hybrids or best naturalizing, these will be repeat bloomers. Tulips should be buried a bit deeper than the package may state. The reasons are that they will come up a bit later, they will be stronger in the wind prone areas, and the deer and other animals will have a harder time finding them.
Daffodils
Daffodils have been described as so eager to please; and they will do that. These are a great choice if you have had problems with pests eating your perennials; they will leave these alone. Plant these before the ground freezes; we don't want them to come up early. Daffodils are known to follow the sun; and they will follow it all day long. When choosing a spot to plant try to find a spot so that they can follow the sun, it is really quite interesting.
Hyacinths
Hyacinths are noted for their long lasting blooms and outstanding fragrance. These qualities make them a top choice for garden beds and forcing. Blooms will remain in top condition for two to three weeks. When choosing bulbs remember that the larger the bulb the larger the flower; in the second year the bulb will split creating a smaller bulbs and smaller blooms. You can supplement by planting new bulbs each season maintaining the large showy flowers. Planting Hyacinths in well drained soil and one that will provide 6 or more hours of sun a day will ensure great blooms.
Winter Watering
Winter watering consists of a monthly soaking to the newly planted and established trees, as well as evergreens and larger shrubs during long periods of dry cold weather. It is the best way to ensure healthy and proper plant growth.
Winter watering is not just for survival, but to help your plant material to thrive. We see that the result of prolonged periods of dry soils in the winter months can cause injury or death to parts of the root system. Plants that have been affected can seem perfectly normal only to resume growth in the spring, but they are using their stored energy. Some plants may be weakened to the point that some or all parts will die in the late spring and summer when temperatures increase. One way to help this situation is to choose plants that are suited for our region, and have better drought tolerance abilities. How well water moves through your soil profile is important to know, and making sure it has nutrients that the plant can use and store for the winter months. Here are a few things that, if incorporated into your gardening routine, will help your plants to thrive.
- When there's no measurable precipitation water 3-4 weeks.
- Water when the temperatures are 40° or above.
- If possible, water between mid morning and 2 p.m. This way the water can saturate before freezing.
- Trees, large shrubs, and newly planted material are the most important to water during the winter.
- Drain your hose to prevent freezing and cracking.