Things to Do in May
- PREPARE PLANTS NOW FOR DRY WEATHER - Conserve
moisture and
control weeds by using a 2-3" layer of pine straw, wood chips, or
pine bark. Partially composted yard waste is available for the
hauling at the City Landfill. Call 910-486-0839.
- CONTROL WEEDS PRIOR TO PLANTING VEGETABLES and
FLOWERS -
Round Up and Finale are common weed killers that can be used.
- FROST-SENSITIVE BEDDING PLANTS can be safely
planted the
first week of May.
- DIVIDE CANNAS. Clumps of Cannas should be divided
every
three or four years to encourage flowering. Set root sections
5-6" deep, 15" apart.
- CRAPEMYRTLES - Watch plants carefully for evidence
of
aphids and spray as needed. (Insecticidal soap, horticultural
oil, or chemicals are available). These aphids are responsible
for the black sooty mold often seen on Crapemyrtles later in the
season. If powdery mildew occurs, apply Funginex or Bayleton
fungicides.
- PRUNE WISTERIA now and throughout the summer to
control
size and shape.
- POISON IVY can be eliminated with multiple sprays
using
2,4-D Amine, Amitrole or Roundup. Do not apply herbicides on a
windy day to prevent injury to desirable plants.
- HANG UP HUMMINGBIRD FEEDERS!
Last revised April 6, 1998.
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