It is springtime and many plants have begun to show signs of growth, which makes it the perfect time, to get outside and work in the yard.

Summer flowering trees and shrubs should be pruned before buds begin to swell for Spring, generally, they bloom on new growth; examples are crape myrtle, butterfly bush, spiraea, and honeysuckle. If those seed heads on crepe myrtles bother you, remove them this month. Just clip back the ends of the branches, do not destroy the beauty of the gracefully sculptured trunks by severe pruning. Please never top a crape myrtle. Spring flowering plants such as azalea, Carolina jessamine, wisteria, forsythia, and quince should not be pruned until after the blooms are spent.

Pruning is both an art and a necessary maintenance function. Most trees and shrubs can be lightly pruned at any time; however, mid-winter is generally the best time for major pruning. Remove any old and diseased canes then cut the remaining canes back by 50%. Make your cuts above a bud that faces away from the center of the plant. Trim back perennials and ornamental grasses before the new growth appears in Spring. Clean up around plants and mulch well to protect.

Thinking about a spring garden? Look for onion sets and seed potatoes, they arrive early. By planting early, plants will be off to a better start and can become adjusted before the stresses of summer arrive.

Stop by your local Olsen’s Grain store and inquire about our April garden tips.

Tags: february garden tips, garden tips, gardening, planting, pre-emergents, preparing soil, pruning, spring garden