Welcoming Spring: A Guide to Caring for Spring Bulbs

by: VickiS

One of the most enchanting signs of the changing season is the emergence of spring bulbs, heralding the end of winter dormancy with their vibrant blooms. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a novice enthusiast, caring for spring bulbs can be a rewarding and relatively straightforward endeavor.

Selecting the Right Bulbs: Before you can revel in the beauty of spring blooms, it’s essential to start with high-quality bulbs. When selecting bulbs, opt for those that are firm, plump, and free from blemishes or mold. Larger bulbs often produce more robust flowers, so choose the biggest ones available. Additionally, pay attention to the specific requirements of each bulb variety, ensuring they are suitable for your climate and soil type.

Planting Time and Location: Timing is crucial when it comes to planting spring bulbs. Aim to plant them in the fall, ideally six to eight weeks before the first hard frost. This allows the bulbs to establish roots before winter sets in. When selecting a planting location, choose a spot with well-drained soil and ample sunlight. Most spring bulbs thrive in full sun to partial shade, so avoid areas with dense shade or standing water, which can cause bulbs to rot.

Planting Depth and Spacing: The depth at which you plant spring bulbs depends on their size. As a general rule of thumb, larger bulbs should be planted deeper, while smaller bulbs can be planted more shallowly. A good guideline is to plant bulbs at a depth that’s roughly two to three times their diameter. Proper spacing is also essential to allow bulbs room to grow and expand. Aim for a spacing of two to three times the bulb’s width between each planting.

Watering and Fertilizing: Once planted, spring bulbs require minimal maintenance, but proper watering is crucial, especially during their active growing period. Keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged, as excessive moisture can lead to bulb rot. During dry spells, water bulbs regularly, aiming to provide around one inch of water per week. Additionally, a light application of balanced fertilizer in early spring can help nourish the bulbs and promote healthy growth and abundant blooms.

Post-Bloom Care: After the spectacular display of spring blooms has faded, it’s important to provide proper care to ensure the bulbs’ longevity and future flowering. Allow the foliage to wither and yellow naturally, as this signals the bulbs are replenishing their energy reserves for the next growing season. Avoid cutting back or removing the foliage prematurely, as it provides essential nutrients to the bulbs. Once the foliage has died back completely, you can gently remove it from the garden bed.

Dividing and Transplanting: Over time, spring bulbs may become overcrowded, leading to decreased flowering and overall vitality. Dividing bulbs every few years can help rejuvenate them and promote better bloom production. Wait until the foliage has died back in late spring or early summer, then carefully dig up the bulbs. Separate any offsets or daughter bulbs from the parent bulb, ensuring each division has its own roots intact. Replant the divisions in a well-prepared bed or share them with fellow gardeners to spread the joy of spring blooms.

Protecting Against Pests and Diseases: While spring bulbs are relatively low-maintenance, they can fall prey to pests and diseases if not properly cared for. Keep an eye out for common pests such as aphids, slugs, and bulb mites, and take appropriate measures to control them if necessary. Avoid planting bulbs in areas prone to waterlogging, as this can increase the risk of fungal diseases such as botrytis and fusarium rot. Proper sanitation practices, such as removing and disposing of any infected plant material, can help prevent the spread of disease.

In conclusion, caring for spring bulbs is a labor of love that rewards gardeners with a stunning display of color and fragrance each year. By selecting high-quality bulbs, planting them at the right depth and spacing, providing adequate water and nutrients, and practicing proper post-bloom care, you can ensure your spring bulbs thrive and delight for seasons to come. So, roll up your sleeves, dig in the dirt, and prepare to welcome spring with open arms and a garden bursting with blooms.

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Enjoy earlier posts abut

Plan for Fall Planting Now

Transplanting Daffodils

Cicadas

by Mary Lou Senf, Outagamie County Master Gardener

This year, 2024, will be experiencing dual emergence of periodical cicadas, Brood XIX (13-Year) and Brood XIII (17-Year).   The last time the two broods emerged together was 1803.  

Brood XIX has been underground for 13 years and Brood XIII has been underground for 17 years.  Brood XIX emergence will be more in the Southern states and Brood XIII will be located more in the North, including Wisconsin.

Both the 13-year Brood XIX and the 17-year Brood XIII are periodical cicada which emerge every 13 or 17 years and differ from annual cicadas that emerge every year.  Periodical cicadas emerge earlier in the year, generally mid to late May or early June as opposed to annual cicada emergence in July and August.

For more information regarding the 2024 emergence of Brood XIII (17-Year) cicadas in Wisconsin visit the following web site:

Introducing the Wisconsin Periodical Cicada Website

Vegetable Gardening

by VickiS

Spring has sprung, and that means it’s time to dive into the world of spring vegetable gardening! Before you start planting, though, it’s important to give your garden beds some TLC. Take the time to loosen up the soil, removing any weeds and debris that may have accumulated over the winter months. Adding compost or organic matter at this stage will provide essential nutrients to the soil, ensuring your plants have the best possible start.

Once your soil is prepped and ready to go, it’s time to start thinking about what to plant. Spring is the perfect time for cool-season vegetables, which thrive in the milder temperatures of the season. Think leafy greens like lettuce, spinach, and kale, which are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Radishes are another excellent choice for spring planting, as they mature quickly and add a zesty crunch to salads and other dishes. And let’s not forget about peas – whether you prefer snap peas, snow peas, or shelling peas, there’s nothing quite like the taste of freshly picked peas straight from the garden.

Once you’ve decided what to plant, it’s time to get your hands dirty! Whether you’re sowing seeds directly into the ground or transplanting seedlings from indoors, be sure to follow spacing and planting depth guidelines for each crop. Water your newly planted seeds or seedlings thoroughly, and continue to water regularly throughout the growing season, especially during dry spells.

Mulching your garden beds is another important step in spring vegetable gardening. A layer of mulch helps retain moisture in the soil, suppresses weeds, and moderates soil temperature – all of which contribute to healthier, more productive plants. Organic mulches like straw, shredded leaves, or grass clippings are ideal for vegetable gardens, as they break down over time and enrich the soil with organic matter.

As your spring garden begins to take shape, be on the lookout for pests and diseases that may threaten your crops. Keep an eye out for common garden pests like aphids, caterpillars, and slugs, and take action to control them before they can cause serious damage. Diseases like powdery mildew and damping-off can also be problematic in spring, especially in damp or humid conditions. Proper spacing, good air circulation, and practicing good garden hygiene can help prevent these issues from taking hold.

Of course, the real fun of spring vegetable gardening comes when it’s time to harvest your bounty! There’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of picking your own fresh, homegrown vegetables and enjoying them at the peak of flavor. Whether you’re tossing them into a salad, sautéing them as a side dish, or incorporating them into your favorite recipes, there’s no denying the deliciousness of freshly picked produce.

In addition to providing fresh, healthy food for you and your family, spring vegetable gardening offers a host of other benefits as well. Spending time outdoors in the garden is a great way to get some exercise, reduce stress, and connect with nature. Gardening also teaches valuable lessons about patience, perseverance, and the cycles of life – lessons that can be applied both in the garden and in everyday life.

So why wait? Dust off your gardening gloves, grab your trowel, and get ready to enjoy all the rewards that spring vegetable gardening has to offer! With a little time, effort, and know-how, you’ll be well on your way to a successful and satisfying growing season.

Blooming Beauties: A Guide to Growing Azaleas

by VickiS

My mother-in-law passed away many years ago. One of the plants sent to her funeral was a small vividly pink azalea, which I planted at our lake cottage near where my in-laws lived. That plant is now 4 1/2 feet tall and 3 feet across — producing beautiful flowers every spring (see above). I’ve done absolutely nothing to it to help with this wonderful growth, and it even had to be transplanted once when we put in a new driveway.

I mention this as an introduction to my home garden that has a small, struggling azalea that refuses to grow or bloom. Because I did nothing to earn the beautiful blooms on the first one, I adopted the same strategy for the second — which was to stick it in the ground and ignore it. Clearly I made a mistake and have now done research to find out what I need to do to save and nourish this little beauty.

Apparently, cultivating these exquisite shrubs requires attention to soil quality, companion planting strategies, and proper fertilization techniques.

Soil Information: Azaleas thrive in well-drained, acidic soil with a pH range between 4.5 and 6.0. Before planting, it’s crucial to amend the soil to meet these requirements. Incorporating organic matter such as compost, pine bark, or peat moss helps improve drainage and acidity levels. Additionally, ensure the planting site has good air circulation to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot.

Companion Plants: Strategic companion planting can enhance the health and aesthetic appeal of your azalea garden. Consider incorporating shade-loving perennials like hostas, ferns, and heucheras to create a harmonious understory beneath the azalea’s canopy. These plants not only complement the azaleas visually but also provide additional texture and color contrasts. Moreover, choosing plants with similar soil and moisture requirements can simplify maintenance and promote overall garden health.

Fertilizer: Proper fertilization is essential for encouraging robust growth and prolific blooming in azaleas. Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer formulated for acid-loving plants in early spring, just before new growth emerges. Avoid fertilizers high in phosphorus, as excessive phosphorus levels can hinder the uptake of essential nutrients like iron, leading to nutrient deficiencies and yellowing leaves. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application rates and frequency, and water thoroughly after fertilizing to ensure proper nutrient absorption.

So, I now have a plan and I’m looking forward to working through this challenge so I can post photos of my newly energized azalea next spring!

Reviving Your Wisconsin Lawn: A Guide to Overseeding in Spring

by VickiS

Springtime in Wisconsin is a time of renewal, and your lawn is no exception. If your once-lush grass has seen better days, overseeding could be the solution to rejuvenating your yard’s greenery. This guide will walk you through the steps of overseeding your lawn in spring, focusing on the essential soil preparation necessary for success.

Understanding Overseeding:
Overseeding involves spreading grass seed over an existing lawn to fill in thin areas, improve density, and introduce new grass varieties. In Wisconsin, where winters can be harsh and summers humid, overseeding in spring helps repair winter damage and fortify your lawn for the upcoming growing season.

Soil Preparation:

1. Assess Your Lawn: Begin by assessing the current state of your lawn. Identify thin or bare patches, areas with poor grass growth, and any signs of compaction.
2. Mow the Lawn: Before starting any soil preparation, mow your lawn to a height of around 1.5 to 2 inches. This step ensures that the grass is at an optimal length for overseeding and allows the new seed to reach the soil surface.
3. Dethatching: If your lawn has a layer of thatch (accumulated dead grass and debris), consider dethatching to improve seed-to-soil contact. Use a dethatching rake or a specialized dethatching machine for larger areas.
4. Aeration: Compacted soil can hinder grass growth by restricting root development and water penetration. Core aeration helps alleviate compaction by removing small plugs of soil, allowing air, water, and nutrients to reach the grassroots. Rent an aerator or hire a professional service for this task.
5. Soil Testing: Test your soil’s pH level and nutrient content using a soil test kit or by sending samples to a local agricultural extension office. Based on the results, amend the soil with lime to raise pH or with specific fertilizers to address nutrient deficiencies.
6. Soil Amendments: Incorporate organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure into the soil. This enriches the soil, improves its structure, and provides a favorable environment for seed germination and root growth. Spread a thin layer (about ¼ inch) of compost evenly over the lawn and rake it into the soil.
7. Leveling: Fill in low spots and level the soil surface using a lawn roller or a leveling rake. A smooth, even surface promotes uniform seed distribution and ensures consistent watering.

Overseeding:

1. Choose the Right Seed: Select grass seed varieties that are well-suited to Wisconsin’s climate and soil conditions. Cool-season grasses like Kentucky bluegrass, fine fescue, and perennial ryegrass thrive in the region’s temperate climate.
2. Seed Application: Use a broadcast spreader or a handheld spreader to evenly distribute the grass seed over the prepared soil surface. Follow the seeding rate recommended for your chosen grass species.
3. Seed-to-Soil Contact: After seeding, lightly rake the soil to ensure good seed-to-soil contact. This helps anchor the seeds and promotes germination.
4. Watering: Keep the seeded area consistently moist, but not waterlogged, to support germination and seedling establishment. Water lightly multiple times a day, especially in dry or windy conditions.
5. Fertilization: Apply a starter fertilizer specially formulated for new seedlings to provide essential nutrients for growth. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application rates and timing.
6. Mulching (Optional): Consider applying a thin layer of straw or mulch over the seeded area to retain soil moisture and protect the seeds from birds and harsh weather conditions.

Maintenance:

1. Regular Watering: Maintain consistent soil moisture until the new grass is well-established, typically within 4-6 weeks after seeding.
2. Mowing: Once the new grass reaches a height of 3 inches, mow it to a height of around 2 inches. Avoid cutting more than one-third of the grass blade length at a time to prevent stress.
3. Fertilization and Weed Control: Follow a regular fertilization schedule and address any weed issues as needed to promote a healthy, dense lawn.

By following these steps for soil preparation and overseeding, you can breathe new life into your Wisconsin lawn and enjoy a lush, vibrant carpet of grass throughout the spring and summer months. Remember that patience and consistent care are key to achieving long-lasting results.