I love gardening! Although I admit I've had a lot to learn moving to Minnesota from the south.
I learned so many great tips from Julie Weisenhorn, the master gardener program director from the University of Minnesota that I had to pass them along. Let me know your thoughts and feel free to add your gardening tips below in the "add a comment" link below.
When to Start
Julie says we really need to wait for some steady warm temperatures. I know aren't we all ready for that! Historically, Julie says "our frost free date is May 20th." Waiting until that date will give your plants a better chance to survive.
Tips When Buying Plants
--Check to make sure the plants soil is moist.
--Pick up the container. Make sure there is some weight to it. Julie says that's often a sign that the plant has been well cared for, well watered.
--Look for a good upright form.
Annuals
--Look for roots growing through the bottom of the container. Julie says that may be a sign that the plant is "pot bound", meaning it's been in the pot a while. "Plants like that can have a tough time once they are transplanted. The best thing to do if you buy flowers like that is to try to break up the roots before you plant them," she says.
Potted Plant Tips
--Julie says it's easier to start with a younger plant. Don't necessarily look for the plant with the most vines. "It'll transplant a little easier if it hasn't got so much foliage to support," she says.
--Give the plants enough room to grow.
Bulbs
--Make sure the bulbs you select don't have mold or mildew.
--Plant them in the fall according to the directions.
--If you want bulbs that won't be eaten by the squirrels or rabbits, choose daffodils. Julie says, "Daffodil bulbs are poisonous, so squirrels won't dig them up and eat them. That's a huge advantage over tulips."
Shrubs
--Junipers are great for year-round green color, but there are lots of varieties. If you are replacing one, be sure to buy the correct kind.
--Put evergreens in full sun. Julie says, "All the needles are they're leaves. You need to make sure you water them really well all the way through that first season so they have enough moisture to produce the green color. That means water them well up until the freezing point."
Soil Test
--A good soil test can tell you what your yard needs to reach its full potential. The University of Minnesota will test your soil for you for $15. You can go here to download an application and get directions on where to collect around your yard. Julie says it typically takes about a week to get the results back, however, the spring and summer seasons are the busiest, so it may take a bit longer.
