NOT YOUR GARDEN VARIETY ADVICE.

Gardening by the Month

OUTDOORS

• Water evergreens if soil is not frozen, to prevent winter dehydration (especially in outdoor containers).
• Re-spray broadleaf evergreens and rose branches with an anti-transpirant, like Wilt-Pruf, when temperatures go above 40 degrees F, to protect them through the rest of the winter.
• Recycle holiday tree branches (cut into 2-3 foot sections), swags, and wreaths as mulch for garden beds. Place the branches to curve over the plants to keep them dormant for the rest of winter,
• Check for frost heaving of perennials. Gently push them back into the ground and cover them with extra mulch.
• Check mulch on roses to see if crowns are covered with at least 12" of mulch.
• Use sand or calcium chloride de-icing products on walkways, rather than sodium based ones, that will kill plants.
• Monitor tree trunks and branches for signs of damage from animals, ice, snow or wind.
• Check de-icing machines in ponds regularly to keep an open area of water for gaseous exchange to keep fish alive.
• In late January, prune a few branches of flowering trees and shrubs to bring inside for forcing early blooms.
• After heavy snowfalls, use a broom to gently knock snow off branches of shrubs, if ice has formed, wait and let it melt off to prevent increased damage.
• To prevent salt damage on plants exposed to road salt spray, set up screens of burlap rather than wrapping the plants.

INDOORS

• Read seed, bulb and nursery catalogs to plan your spring garden.
• Attend a free Chalet lecture in the Education Center, schedules are located on our Education page or at the Garden Shop Information desk.
• Extend the life of holiday gift plants by placing them in a cool area with bright light.
• Most houseplants require less water and fertilizer until the days get longer in March. Watch them for signs of spider mites or other insects. Use a systemic insecticide monthly to prevent serious outbreaks.
• Let cacti go semi-dormant, water only to prevent shriveling.
• Don't be tempted to start your seeds too early for spring, schedule backwards from the frost free date, May 15, when planning your garden.