Plants should receive
1-to-2 inches of water every 7-to-10 days. Supplement water if we have
not had rainfall. Pay particular attention to drought-sensitive plants
such as maples, birch, hydrangea, and katsura.
Thin older shrubs
that have become over-grown by removing 1/3 of the older stems.
Remove water sprouts
and suckers from ornamental fruit trees.
Monitor all plants
regularly for insect and disease problems.
Continue to pull
weeds before they go to seed. After a rain, roots will pull out easier
and more completely.
Cool weather and
excess moisture in spring can allow many fungal diseases to thrive. To
prevent re-infection, remove as many infected leaves as possible.
Cut roses back to the
first set of five leaves after blooming to encourage stronger canes and
more flowers.
Divide and replant
iris. Discard any plant showing signs of insect or disease. Iris should
be divided every 3 to 5 years.
Remove spent flowers
and pinch back leggy foliage from annuals and perennials to promote
bushier growth and more flowers. Stop pinching mums after July 10 to
allow flower buds to set.
In hot weather, let
grass grow longer by raising the height of your lawn mower to the
highest setting.
Provide fresh water
for birds and other wildlife.
Garden calendar
tips provided by The Morton Arboretum, Lisle, IL.
