In the Garden
• Around Valentine’s Day, apply dormant copper spray to peach and nectarine trees no later than bud swell.
• Fertilize mature trees and shrubs after spring growth starts.
• Be sure to remove and discard (do not compost) fallen camellia blossoms to reduce petal blight.
• Fertilize spring blooming and fall-planted perennials.
• Mulch 3 inches deep around plants (without touching stems) to conserve soil moisture.
• Plant in vegetable garden by direct seeding: radishes, beets, chard, and peas.
• Start tomato, pepper and eggplant seeds indoors.
• Flowers to transplant or direct seed: snapdragon, candytuft, larkspur, coral bells,
and stock.
• Plant bulbs for summer bloom: dahlias, begonias, gladiolus, lilies, etc.
• Plant potatoes.
Pruning:
• Finish pruning roses.
• Prune summer blooming shrubs now.
Pest and Disease Control
• Watch for aphids on spring blooming bulbs; remove with a strong spray of water.
• As the weather warms prepare to battle slugs and snails with traps or pet-friendly baits.
