January:

  • Cut branches from your real Christmas tree and use to cover perennials
  • Check all indoor plants for signs of insects and treat if needed
  • Prune branches damaged by snow and ice

February:

  • Groundhog Day, check plants for signs of animal damage
  • Pinch off Christmas Cactus flowers after blooming
  • Sharpen and clean tools as needed
  • Prune fruit trees

March:

  • Start seeds indoors for late May planting.
  • Begin garden cleanup, weather permitting.
  • It’s time to prune clematis when the buds begin to swell.
  • Prune deciduous trees and shrubs that bloom in the
  • summer (not shrubs that bloom before June 15th)
  • Prune autumn flowering clematis vines to 12 inches tall.
  • Fertilize houseplants as they begin new growth.
  • Check drainage in planting areas. Dig holes 12 inches
  • wide and 12 inches deep. Fill the holes with water and
  • time how long it takes for water to drain.
  • More than 6 hours denotes drainage problems.

April:

  • Continue cleanup and enjoy those beautiful spring bulbs.
  • Clean pots and ready beds for planting.
  • Visit Garden centers for new ideas.
  • Prune large flowered clematis that bloom in mid-June
  • into July. Cut to the highest swelling bud.
  • Uncover roses. Remove mulch and mounded soil.
  • Mow or trim groundcovers to remove winter-browned foliage.
  • Fertilize and water to promote new growth.
  • Plant bare-root plants. Soak roots in warm water for
  • two hours before planting.
  • Remove spent flowers from spring bulbs but allow
  • foliage to wither and turn brown before removing.
  • Establish or renovate turf by seed or sod.
  • Begin to plant perennials, hardy ornamental
  • grasses and roses.

May:
  • Plant more native flowers and shrubs, especially those
  • attracting butterflies and birds.
  • Take a ride to the Buffalo Grove Blue Star Memorial Marker to see the beautiful daffodil display.
  • Stake tall perennials before they reach 6 inches high.
  • Pinch back fall bloomers weekly until early July. (mums, asters, tall sedums)
  • Set up soaker hoses to efficiently water plantings.
  • Cover with 2 inches of organic mulch to retain moisture.
  • Continue deadheading spring bulbs when flowering is done to direct energy back into bulbs. Let foliage turn brown.
  • Prune spring flowering shrubs and trees after they bloom.
  • Fertilize the lawn.
  • Fertilize roses with liquid 20-20-20 solution when flower buds are set.
  • Spray lily shoots with animal repellant for rabbits and deer.
  • Plant your plants purchased at our Annual Plant Sale.