Gardening with Containers
Friday, July 18, 2008 @9:42am CST
Thinking about doing some Container Gardening? Here are some tips to help get your best results.

You need to look carefully at the spot where the container will be placed; this will determine the plants that you will buy. You might need plants for the shade or the sun. The space that you have will help choose the right size pot.

When you add your plants they will be small so allow room for them to grow, too many plants will not do well and the roots will take up all the soil. There are so many different containers on the market.

If you are going to be moving the pot, a light weight container made of plastic would be good. Unlike clay which is heavy and allows water to evaporate through the walls, plastic will hold water much better, drainage is very important. Roots will rot if there is poor drainage.

Use a saucer under the pot if you do not want run off.

Buy good potting soil; if you start with good soil you will have good plants.

Plant your flowers one inch below the top of the pot, this will help to prevent the water from over flowing. Adding mulch on the top helps with looks.
August Landscape Tips
Friday, August 1, 2008 @1:32pm CST

- Cut back perennials and annuals half way and they will put new growth on and be pretty right up into late fall. Use a slow release fertilizer.

- After your hydrangeas are done it is ok to prune back for next year. You never prune them in the winter.

- Time to plant cabbage, collards and broccoli plants. You can seed plant cucumbers and squash.

- Divide your iris bulbs. Also you can plant new ones.

- Keep an eye out for insects and diseases.

- For roses add a slow release fertilizer so they will be nice for the fall.

- Start to think about what you want to plant for fall color.