Ah, springtime brings a flurry of garden inquiries, doesn’t it? Let’s dive into some green thumb talk!
So, for tackling crabgrass, it’s all about timing. If you’re dealing with a light infestation, a post-May 1st application of pre-emergent herbicide should do the trick. But for those peskier, heavier infestations, a follow-up application about three weeks later can really knock ’em out. And don’t forget to give it a good watering to help it settle into the soil.
Now, when it comes to those broadleaf weeds like dandelions, a weed and feed combo before they bloom and when the leaf growth is hearty can work wonders. Scott’s 3X herbicide granular is a solid choice, but there are plenty of other brands out there with similar offerings.
And let’s not forget about those sneaky grasses creeping into the perennial beds or rock gardens. Grass B Gon can help clear them out, just make sure to read up on the precautions on the label.
Cicadas. Luckily, we’re safe here in the west, as they tend to steer east of South Dakota. The ones we do have around in late summer aren’t the heavy hitters, so no need to fret about them causing much trouble.
Now, those vertical cracks in young trees, especially fruit trees, can be a bit alarming, but they’re usually just frost cracks when the sap warms up on a winter day and then freezes at night. As long as they don’t extend too far down into the ground, the trees should heal up on their own.
The mole cricket, an unexpected visitor in the garden. These large brown crickets are usually in small numbers, they’re not much of a bother.
And speaking of unwelcome guests, ticks seem to be gearing up for a busy season. Time to stock up on Frontline for our furry friends and tidy up the backyard to keep those tick numbers in check. Always check with a vet for medications to prevent these bloodsuckers on your pet.
Remember, when it comes to planting trees and shrubs, don’t let a little freeze scare you off. Get ’em in the ground ASAP and let nature do its thing. Happy gardening!