Well, it took some time but summer is here.
Keep cool and well hydrated during the heat wave that is now upon us. Celebrate B.C. Day on Monday, Aug. 1, introduced in 1974 to recognize our pioneers. Weeding sessions at the Henry Road traffic circle continue. Come and join us.
WE DIG – DO IT NOW TIPS
Keep deadheading
Keep baskets and planters well fed and watered
Keep water from shrub leaves while hot sun is out
Prune back wisteria
Trim evergreen hedges, including laurel
Remove finished annuals
When cane plants such as raspberries are finished, cut the old canes to the ground
Brush the soil away from the tops of onions to assist in maturity
To toughen trees, shrubs and perennials for winter, stop fertilizing
Cut back stems of pumpkins and trailing winter squash. Make the cut just above the leaf growing beyond the last formed fruit
DID YOU KNOW …
… the flower of the month is the gladiola, meaning give me a break?
… crushed eggshells mixed into soil around cabbage, broccoli and cauliflower provide the extra calcium they need?
… dahlia flowers are edible?
… a rose bush can drink up to three gallons of water a day when the weather is warm?
… weeds on gravel walks may be destroyed by applying a copious dressing of salt?
… keep the vegetable cooking water – cool and use to water potted patio plants?
PICK OF THE MONTH
LADY’S MANTLE (ALCHEMILLA MOLLIS) – yellow green
Alchemilla comes from the word ‘alchemy’ when used as a herb these plants are believed to bring cures. Species name mollis means soft hairs – the fuzzy covering on the leaves.
Blooms from spring to late summer and prefers partial shade. Provides source of flowers for fresh or dried arrangements.
Height – 30-45 cm Spread 60 cm
AND …
If only I could grow green stuff in my garden like I grow in my refrigerator.
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