by Amanda Murphy, Master OCNT • Garden Account Manager
It’s that time of the year when the nurseries are full of beautiful, bright, sweet smelling annuals, perennials, herbs and vegetables just calling your name and waiting to be planted. It seems like the perfect time, well until recently.
We were blessed with an unusual warm spring so far, but as I write this article we are preparing for freezing temps and possible snow tonight and into tomorrow. This situation is a “chilling” reminder that in our Planting Zone (#6), it is always best to resist the urge to plant until after May 15th.
With the exception of those tough little pansies, ranunculus, spring bulbs and a few other hardy plants most other new plantings are susceptible to cold or frost damage if the temps drop substantially. The new tender plants that have been brought to life in warm greenhouses aren’t quite ready for the harsh weather that Mother Nature may dish out during this change of seasons. Your established plants are used to this and can roll with the fluctuation and survive late frost.
So, if you’re eager to get out in your yard and gardens this is a perfect time to just prepare for planting by weeding, edging, tilling, adding new soil and composted material. Even have your soil tested if you’re planning on putting in a vegetable garden.
Your local OSU Extension office is available for soil testing. For more info on testing, follow this link:
If you’re like a lot of us here at MJ Design, we can’t wait to grow something! Try starting those vegetables & flower seeds inside. Give them 3-4 weeks to mature and then transplant them into your garden according to the date on each seed package’s instructions.
It’s an exciting time of the year with everything coming to life and the promise of summer right around the corner!