It is especially hard in the heat of summer to keep plants looking good for long periods of time. With a little extra attention plants can be rejuvenated and stimulated to look their best again.
Slow release fertilizers work g
ents needed by hungry plants. Always follow label directions for application rates.
Hanging baskets may look ragged by now. Rejuvenating the baskets may be as simple as pruning and fertilizing them. Removing old growth, weeds, spent flower buds and dead plants will begin the process of renewal. Once the contained is cleaned up, add a fresh top dressing of mulch or compost. Soon the container be looking great again.
A two or three inch layer of mulch will provide shelter for plant roots, restrict weed growth and help insure an even moisture supply to annuals, perennials and woody shrubs. Remember, weeds compete for light, nutrients and water, so keep weeds suppressed with a layer of mulch.
Deadheading, the process of removing spent flowers from annuals and perennials, is a good practice that keeps plants from putting energy into seed production and keeps them blooming. It also keeps plants neat and tidy.
It’s not too late to plant more seeds of fast blooming annuals such as cosmos, cleome, marigolds and zinnia if you get started by early August. The same is true for additional plantings of bulbs like gladiolus for fall cut flower harvest.
For more information please contact Leanne McGee at the MSU Extension Office 601-635-7011.
