2020 is right around the corner and January weather is headed our way. Here in Northeast Kansas I am already eagerly awaiting the first spring flowers of March. However, there are things to do in the yard and garden and greenhouse before we get out of January follow these tips and tricks now to make less work for you in the spring.
#1 What to do when it snows
- Evenly spread snow from walks, do not pile snow on shrubs and trees. If you must use de-icers or, hand spread when possible to prevent it getting onto the lawn or among flower beds
- Get out your design, plant catalogs, or go to www.grimmsgardens.com/shop and plan for the additions you want for 2020
#2 Thing to do in the Orchard/Garden
- On days where the temperature is above 50°F, spray peach, apple, cherry, and plum trees with dormant oil to kill overwintering pests and diseases
- Prune peach, plum, apricot, apple, cherry, blackberries, blueberries, raspberries, gooseberries, and aronia now
- If snowfall has been light, water recently planted trees, shrubs, and perennials when temperatures are above 50°F
- Spray roses, peach trees, grape vines, and blackberries with lime sulfur to kill diseases and pests when temperatures are above 50°F
- Clean up fallen fruit under apple and peach trees to prevent disease spread in 2020
#3 In the greenhouse/garden shed
- Check to make sure all tools have been oiled and sharpened (this should have been done in November)
- Check tires on wheelbarrows, mowers, and equipment and fix if necessary
- Apply a fresh coat of paint to the wheelbarrow or garden cart
- Wash pots, containers, and seed trays with a bleach/soapy water mix to kill bacteria and prepare for the coming planting season
- Clean and repair pruners, trowels, and shears
- Sand and seal wooden tool handles
#4 Trees & Shrubs in the Landscape
- After a heavy snowfall, use a broom to gently brush snow off trees and shrubs to reduce/prevent limb damage
- Allow any ice buildup to melt away naturally from limbs
- Prune storm damaged branches as soon as possible to prevent bark tearing
- Wrap any unprotected stems with plastic sleeves to prevent rabbit damage
Happy planting!
