SPRINGTIME PLANTING WEEK
GROWING:
Maintaining your newly planted plants is essential to help them establish roots and grow strong and healthy. Here are some tips on how to maintain your plants after planting:
Watering: It’s important to keep your plants well-watered after planting, especially during the first few weeks. Water deeply and regularly, making sure the soil stays moist but not waterlogged. Adjust the frequency and amount of watering based on the plant’s specific needs.
Fertilizing: Newly planted plants can benefit from a boost of nutrients to help them establish roots and grow. Use a slow-release fertilizer or compost to add nutrients to the soil around your plants.
Mulching: Mulching around your plants can help retain moisture in the soil, suppress weed growth, and regulate soil temperature. If you didn’t use mulch when planting and your plants look a little droopy after watering, you should apply a layer of mulch around the base of your plants, making sure not to pile it up against the stem.
Pruning: Prune any dead or damaged foliage or flowers regularly to promote healthy growth and to prevent the spread of disease.
Pest control: Keep an eye out for any pests or diseases that may affect your plants, and take action immediately if you notice any signs of infestation. Use organic or chemical pest control methods as needed.
Weeding: Regularly remove any weeds that may grow around your plants to prevent them from competing for nutrients and space.
Keep notes: Keep some notes about your wins and losses with your gardens this summer so that you make different choices next year!
Fall clean up: DON’T! You will have exponentially more pollinators if you leave existing plants over the winter and instead clean up dead foliage in the spring.
By following these basic maintenance tasks, you can help your newly planted plants establish strong roots, grow healthy, and thrive in your garden.