Daily Updates and Alerts
Spring Time Chores
Spring time is upon us now and it’s time to clean the yard, the flower beds and get the vegetable garden ready for planting and sowing. Suggestions of priorities are as follows:
1) Soil tests – By testing your soil now, results will be mailed to you and there will be time to correct any situation that may present itself. Remember to gather soil samples from various locations for turf management and gather enough soil for the laboratory to use and have extra, just in case. Place your quart size samples in a clean zip-lock bag and label it from which area of the property it was from. Soil test kits are available from Rutgers Cooperative Extension or your local feed and fertilizer supplier.
2) Some things to consider are;
a. Was fungus present on your roses, dogwoods or in your mulch? If there was a presence of the “fungus amoungus”, then it is imperative that the leaves and the mulch from the prior year be removed from under and around the plants. Replace with fresh mulch or another weed or protective barrier and keep a sharp eye out for new signs of fungi spores.
b. Did invasive grasses and weeds make their mark in the beds? The use of pre-emergent or cloth barriers should be considered and aggressive measures taken to control these pests.
c. Speaking of pests, do you remember a particular bug that “bugged” you last year? This may be the time to take control of your garden. Natural native predators are available if you prefer, but some chemical controls could be applied in early spring for control. A local licensed Commercial Applicator can advise you of the best control and preventative methods.
3) Look for winter damage on trees and shrubs. Prune out any hazardous or damaged branches. Replacement of dead material and planning a new landscape at this time is good, because the nurseries are getting new stock and with this economy, prices are sure to be fair.
Take a look around your property and assess work that needs to be addressed and plan for the warmer weather that’s about to come upon us.
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