Here are some tips on what I do to keep Linda’s Serenity Garden looking good without wearing myself out.
My ornamental garden beds
By early summer all danger of late frosts should have passed, it’s safe to plant tender summer bedding plants and to position summer containers and hanging baskets outside. In the Pacific Northwest, where I live, this is normally about Memorial Day.
Now is the time to stake or support plants before they flop over. Once they have flopped over it’s very hard to rectify the situation! I use readymade plant supports from the garden store. I also construct my own using bamboo canes, sticks, and plastic coated stakes pushed into the soil. When tieing back plants do not use wire as it will damage the plant. Use hemp twine or a similar twine product. I also use my old panty hose and stockings to tie back larger shrubs.
If there are any gaps in your ornamental borders now is the time to fill them in using annual bedding plants. You can also use potted lilies or other summer flowing bulbs from the garden store and put the pots directly into the soil.
Many spring flowering shrubs will benefit from pruning in the early summer as this will give them time to produce the new growth necessary for next year’s flowers before the end of the season.
The Vegetable Garden
Lettuce, radishes and other salad crops should also be ready now. Don’t forget to make repeated sowings at two or three week intervals so that you can enjoy them all summer long. Pinch out the side shoots on tomatoes. Enjoy harvesting and eating the first early potatoes which will be delicious!
Do not forget that it is also time to be putting out garden decor and accents in your garden and lawn. Visit www.gardenaccentheaven.com and check out the large selection of bird houses, birdfeeders, bird baths, garden gnomes, fountains, statues, English garden houses and troughs, wind chimes and much more. These will give your garden that unique personality that only you can give it.
Have fun and enjoy yourself in your own backyard.
Tags: Garden, garden decor, home and garden, home garden, lawn garden
