Kathy Berryhill
Creek County Master Gardener
Sunny days along with frequent rain showers help develop beautiful area gardens. So what do our June gardens need? Care and preparation for our hot summer days!
Add mulches such as pine bark or cypress around plants and young trees to help retain moisture and provide weed control. Avoid crowding the stem or trunk with mulch to help prevent disease.
Watch for end-of-the-season sales at garden stores. Plant annuals now to establish roots before the summer heat begins.
Fertilize warm season Bermuda and zoysia lawns with a nitrogen dominant fertilizer. Dethatch lawns if needed or aerate if the soil is compacted. Reseed or sod in bare spots. Mow lawns to the height of 2 1/2’”, limiting the cut to 1/3 of the existing height. Apply post emergent Crabgrass control.
Continue feeding roses monthly to develop healthy plants and treat roses for yellow spot, mildew and fungus. Some systemic fertilizers, which are applied to the roots and absorbed by the plant, contain yellow spot/fungus control along with fertilizer. Prune roses to provide good airflow. Clean pruners when moving between plants to avoid spreading disease.
Keep beds tidy by cutting off (deadheading) seed heads from annuals and perennials. This promotes additional blooms, maintains the plant’s shape and controls rampant reseeding (bolting).
Check moisture levels frequently on beds, flowerpots, trees, shrubs and lawns. Plants and turf require 1” or more of water per week during the heat. Deep, weekly watering practices stimulate the growth of deeper roots. Flowerpots require more frequent watering and feeding.
Vegetables can still be purchased and planted but require water regularly while plants are establishing. Fertilize as needed. Trim yellow branches off of tomato plants.
These chores and many more make this a busy month for gardeners. But as we know, the payoff will be worth it! Happy Gardening.
