Hort Shorts
- Cutting away spent flower heads not only improves the appearance of the flower garden, but yields more blooms. Dahlias, zinnias, marigolds, geraniums, purple coneflower, petunias, coreopsis, snapdragons and verbena are among plants that benefit from a trim. There is no need to deadhead impatiens and begonias.
- July and August are good months for lifting, dividing and transplanting irises. Also, lift and transplant oriental poppies that can be propagated via rooted cuttings.
- Constant harvesting of tomatoes, squash, cucumbers, and green beans encourages production.
- If mosquitoes attack you as you garden, leave off the perfume or aftershave and anoint yourself with a spray of insect repellent.
- Keep lawn and garden well watered. Sprinkling harms vegetation as it draws roots upward to get the meager drops. Roots need to anchor deeper to cooler depths.
- Tall-growing tomato plants produce best if tied to a wooden stake for support.
- For fall color, plant annuals and perennials.
- Proper fertilizing, water and mowing are essential for a good lawn.
- Deer, who often eat tender vegetation, can be repelled from home grounds by fishing line secured 8-to-10 feet from the ground.
- The best way to prevent weeds is to adhere to a good maintenance program.
- Check fruit trees weekly. Remove small fruit with worm holes.
- Sometimes called bearded iris, German iris needs good air circulation. These irises have a difficult time in the South because of the humid summers. It helps to keep the center of the plant clear of old, decaying leaves. Remove spent flower stalks.
- Seed Brussels sprouts in pots or directly into the garden for harvest in late October. Store all leftover seed in a plastic bag in the refrigerator.