Apr 30, 2024
May is here, and the summer heat is just around the corner. There is so much happening in our gardens this month. Here is a list of things to do in May.
- Plant Vegetables: Plant warm-season vegetables and consider succession planting every two weeks for extended harvests.
- Prevent Spider Mites: Take preventative measures such as adequate irrigation, daily misting of leaf undersides, reducing dustiness, and using horticultural oil sprays.
- Fertilize Fruit Trees: Fruit trees are actively growing, so fertilize them accordingly, following directions and safety precautions provided with the fertilizer you choose.
- Prune Roses: Prune spent blooms weekly down to the first five-part leaf or slightly further for shaping. Lightly feed and water afterward.
- Prune Sub-Tropical and Deciduous Fruit Trees: May is ideal for pruning trees like ficus, coral tree, avocado, citrus, etc. Avoid pruning sub-tropical trees in winter.
- Plant Perennials: May is a great time to plant perennials; keep them well-watered as summer approaches.
- Fertilize Dahlias: Regularly fertilize dahlias with a low nitrogen, high phosphorus organic fertilizer like fish bone meal throughout their growing and blooming period.
- Turn on Automatic Timers: Now that the rainy season is over ensure your automatic timers are turned back on for watering. Water deeply and less frequently rather than with light, daily sprinkles
- Check Drip System: Regularly check drip systems for clogs, leaks, and broken parts to ensure efficient watering.
- Monitor for Pests: Visually survey plants weekly for pests and take action early to prevent high populations that are difficult to control.
- Refresh Mulch: Maintain soil moisture by refreshing mulch around plants.
- Weed Control: Remove weeds to reduce competition for water with your plants.
With this May garden checklist, you're well-equipped to embrace the season's abundance and nurture a thriving garden.
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