Tom’s May Tips

1. Begin planting trees, shrubs and perennials now.
2. Divide and transplant perennials after they flower.
3. Plant annuals after all danger of frost has past (average date is May 15th)
4. Encourage butterflies and bees by planting native species.
5. After deadheading spring flowering bulbs, do not remove their foliage. Let it die back naturally.
6. Prune spring flowering trees and shrubs immediately after blooming (i.e. Crabapple, Forsythia, Lilac, Viburnum,etc.)
7. Apply three to four inches of mulch around plants. This helps reduce weeds, conserves moisture and controls temperature fluctuations in soil.
8. Keep weeds controlled. They are easier to pull when they’re small. Avoid deep cultivation around shallow rooted plants.
9. Stake tall and floppy perennials (i.e. Peonies, Delphiniums, etc.)
10. Check evergreens, especially spruces for spider mites. Treat as new growth begins. Place a white sheet of paper under branch, then tap lightly. Look for moving pinhead sized spots.
11. Apply fungicide sprays to roses to control diseases such as block spot.