February in the Garden

We have to pay attention to mother nature. She gives us subtle cues as to what we need to be doing in the Garden. While trees and shrubs are still dormant, we should be heavy pruning, taking 1/3 of old growth to stimulate new growth and help shape the plant. As signs of spring emerge, we are tempted to get out there and start cleaning up and preparing for this year. However, it is NOT recommended to start cleaning out garden beds until temperatures are consistently above 50 degrees. This recommendation is in place to help this seasons pollenating insects, as they tend to overwinter in branches or in the ground. When we disturb these sites we are essentially throwing away this years essential insects. Native bees and fireflies are among those creatures we want to see more of not less. Waiting to do official spring cleanup will help our pollinating friends.

We can cut back ornamental grasses. This is essential for season’s foliage. Pink muhley, little or big blue stem, and switch grass should be cut back before new foliage flushes. This will also give the garden a sense of tidiness. You can also throw mulch over leaves in garden beds. This will give the yard a clean look, while protecting those pollinators. When mulching consider a natural hardwood mulch, nothing dyed if possible, It is a preference, and by all means do what you feel is right for your space. The chemicals from the dye leach into the soil and cause more problems.

This month we should also be planning the garden. I like to start with the big items such as trees and shrubs. Putting these in first will help make accurate assessments where other plants should go. Then perennials and annuals. I like to get my seedlings started inside under a light for all vegetables that will go in. I recommended you plant what you will eat! I see so many vegetables wasted for the sake of planting, not eating. Plant things you like and will eat often. Herbs are another facet to the garden that bring pollinators and repels unwanted insects like mosquitos. It starts with a vision, and while we are waiting for temperature to get warmer, we can be tending to other things with this years vision in mind.