I am often asked about timing. “Is it too late for, too early for, or when should I….?” These are common but good questions because it means the person is thinking before doing. Most trees, shrubs, and lawn grasses are forgiving when it comes to errant timing of pruning and pest management. An example are azaleas. Azaleas bloom on the current season’s growth. This is often referred to as ‘new wood.’ Pruning after mid-summer will remove next spring blooms but it will not harm the plant. Another example is spraying herbicide on weeds in the lawn when the temperatures are below 50 degrees, which will have little effect. The reason is because the weeds are not actively growing; however, it will not harm the lawn, just the wallet, i.e. the other green.
Do not confuse improper timing with improper technique. Pruning too much or spraying with four ounces per gallon when the label says one will often lead to another question. “Honey, what did you do to the….?”
Numerous trees and shrubs respond best to pruning in late January to early March. Before you prune, first positively identify the plant. Second, search the cooperative extension website at: www.ext.vt.edu. Type ‘pruning calendar’ in the search bar to find links to publications on when to prune shrubs, and both evergreen and deciduous trees.
Timing is also important when buying seeds. Full service garden centers have both ornamental and edible garden seeds in stock now. Even though it is January, make your purchase now while the selection is greater. Do not worry about the seeds expiring. Seed packets that are sealed and stored in a cool, dry place will last from one to four years. Printed seed catalogs and online sites are good choices as well for heirloom varieties of vegetables and new varieties of annuals. My granddaddy always looked forward to receiving the seed catalog in the mail this time of year. It made even the dreariest of winter days brighter. He could also pick the best watermelon in the garden by using a piece of broom straw. No doubt my love for gardening came from him.
One last thought on time. Take a few minutes each week and walk around your yard. Pick up limbs, gum balls, and pine cones. The time spent now will be less work in the spring.
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