Manage Your Summer Garden

We’ve had more rain in July 2011 than any July in the past 120+ years! What’s more, July 2011 is now in the record books as the 7th wettest month – ever – in Chicago records!

But, this is bound to end (we all say) and there will be plenty of chances to do the usual summer garden activities. Here is a helpful and partial run-down of what you should be doing in your summer garden. Our web site has the full list.

* Cool weather and excess moisture in spring allows fungal diseases to thrive. To prevent reinfection, remove as many infected leaves as possible.
* Prune late-spring flowering shrubs and hedges now.
* Avoid pruning oaks and elms between mid-April to mid-July. Oak Wilt and Dutch Ellm Disease are spread by sap-feeding insects carrying the disease from tree to tree.
* Replenish mulch under trees and shrubs to conserve moisture, reduce weeds and control temperature fluctuations in soil.
* Monitor all plants regularly for pest and disease problems.
* Pull weeds before they go to seed. After a rain, roots will pull out more easily and completely.
* Plant summer-flowering bulbs and annuals. Annuals are developing roots; fertilize and keep well watered.
* Monitor container plants (especially those in clay pots) daily for watering needs.
* Pinch garden mums and asters once a month (until July 15) for bushier growth.
* Remove faded blossoms from flowering annuals, perennials, and roses to encourage more blooms.
* Fertilize roses with a 10-10-10 slow-release fertilizer after first bloom.
* Check bird houses for unwanted tenants and fill birdbath regularly.
* Divide and replant iris. Discard any plant showing signs of insect or disease. Iris should be divided every three to five 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.

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