April Showers Bring May Flowers

April Showers Bring May Flowers

One of the joys of spring and summer is that you can grow your own garden. Whether you want flowers, fruit or vegetables the options are limitless. Read on for successful gardening tips and ideas:
1. Survey the area and plan. Decide where to plant and clean up any winter debris. Make sure your pathway is clear and you won't have to redirect your planting midway through.
2. Buy the proper tools and plants. This means quality. It will make a world of difference when planting. For early spring choose trees, shrubs and perennials.
3. Check the pH level of soil. The soil you are using should be enriched. If you want to increase the pH level in the soil, you can add dolomitic lime, and similarly to reduce the pH level, you can add elemental sulfur.
4. When planting new plants, prepare new beds and remove all the weeds and debris from the soil. Spread manure or compost over the soil, and cultivate to a depth of 10 to 12 inches.
5. Also, if you plant flower beds in a diamond pattern rather than straight rows, they'll look fuller faster.
6. Lastly, when new growth takes place, apply fertilizer around trees and shrubs. Fertilize perennials only when the active growth takes place.
7. Enjoy your beautiful garden!