·
Now that the soil can be worked (crumbles in
your hand when squeezed), consider doing a Penn State soil test. Kits are$9 and
available at our Extension office.
·
Direct-seed cool weather crops such as peas,
radishes, spinach, arugula and Swiss chard.
·
Indoors, start seeds of tender vegetables such
as tomatoes, peppers and eggplants.
·
Prune peach, plum and cherry trees in mid-April.
·
Fertilize spring flowering bulbs when the leaves
become established. Remove faded flowers to eliminate seed formation and
fertilize once more with a 5-10-5 or its equivalent. Allow foliage to grow
"naturally" (don't braid it) and remove when it turns yellow and
comes out when gently pulled.
·
Keep mulch on plants until soil temperature
remains well above freezing to prevent frost from "heaving" the root
system.
·
Seeing forsythia plants in full bloom is usually
a good indicator of when to apply pre-emergent herbicide for crabgrass control.
·
Prune spring flowering shrubs shortly after the
flowers fade.
·
Spring pruning of roses should be done a week or
so before the last killing frost in your area. Leave three to six strong canes,
pruning out dead or “spindly” branches.
·
Cut back perennials and ornamental grasses that
were left standing for winter interest.
·
When they first emerge and are small, divide
summer and fall-blooming perennials such as asters, astilbe, chrysanthemum,
coral bells, daylilies and hostas.
·
Prune out old raspberry canes.
·
Celebrate Earth Day on April 22 and Arbor Day on
April 25th!
