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TREES AND SHRUBS:
~Established
trees will benefit from a new layer of mulch with spring’s
drying winds in full force. But make sure the mulch does not
heap against trunks, which can encourage fungal disease on the
damp wood.
~Begin
a good rose feeding schedule after pruning away dead canes and
shaping to desired form. Allow newly planted roses to bloom
once before fertilizing them with a formula with higher
phosphorus, such as 12-24-12.
~Although
seemingly oblivious to the calendar this year, azaleas typically
bloom during March. If yours have already finished their
flowering cycle, you may feed them this month.
~Camellias
also respond well to a nutritional boost as they send shoots of
spring growth. If you prefer an organic alternative to the
usual fertilizer formulated for camellias (and azaleas), try a
top dressing of cottonseed meal. Remember that both of these
shrubs require a higher moisture level than many other shrubs,
such as native plants. During dry periods, be sure they receive
at least one inch of water per week.
PERENNIALS:
~As
unattractive as it may seem, dying foliage of bulbs like
daffodils should be allowed to remain until completely dried and
brittle. Nutrition required to ensure good blooming next year
is being absorbed through the foliage. If you cannot tolerate
this unkempt state, consider replanting your bulbs into a sunny
groundcover bed where the foliage could be tucked under and not
be seen. Or interplant with petunias or other spring bedding
that will hide the straggly remnants of your bulbs.
~Seed
purple coneflower and other summer blooming perennials now if
you didn’t get around to it in fall. Bulbs/corms for ginger,
allium, rain lily, canna, daylily and society garlic can be put
in or transplanted during March. Wait until mid-month to plant
blooming perennials/hardy annuals that might be considered
“border line” for your hardiness zone.
ANNUALS/VEGETABLES:
~Farmers
will tell you to look to the pecan or mesquite --- depending on
if you are in West or East Texas --- to let you know when to put
out tender transplants. Although we should be freeze-free, a
late cold snap is not unheard of for Texas. Be prepared to cover
freshly planted tomatoes and peppers if necessary.
~If
you are unsure of the best varieties of vegetables for your
garden, call on the County Extension Service. (http://county-tx.tamu.edu/)
They should be able to supply you with a list of preferred
plants for your area and answer any horticultural questions you
might have. This is a tax-supported service that is free to
county residents.
GENERAL:
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