GARDEN + GARDENING + GARDEN DESIGN + GARDENING TIPS & ADVICE

February and March are the months to get your fruit trees ready for a good year.  Prune your fruit trees now before the sap begins to flow.  It’s recommended that you cut back one-third of new top growth and two-thirds of the new side growth.  New growth is that which grows beyond slightly bunched up bark.

The first cuts should eliminate dead or damaged branches  You should also cut out crossing branches as well as those that grow straight up from a major limb (some refer to these as “suckers”).  When cutting limbs that are one inch or larger be careful not to cut into the collar.  The collar looks like a bunched up shirt sleeve.  The cut will heal properly if you cut next to it, but not into it.

If you are going to use dormant spray, be sure to spray before the trees begin to blossom.  Usually an oil based spray is preferred.

Pear and plum trees require very little pruning.  Apricot, apple and peach trees need more pruning to strengthen branches that hold heavy fruit.

I’ve learned that most of the herbs used in cooking are available to grow in your garden from seed or plants.  Plants that are easily grown from seed include basil, dill, chives, oregano, and cilantro.  Rosemary, thyme, and sage are easier to grow from plants.

Be careful to plant basil later in the spring (about the time you plant tomatoes) since they susceptible to frost.  I’ve also learned by experience that if you let dill go to seed you will probably never have to re-seed.

Of course, instead of growing your herbs from seed you may purchase those plants you want to grow in your garden from a local nursery.  If you lack space, herbs grow well in containers.

Drying your herbs will allow you to store and use them at a later time.  It’s always nice to have your own produce on the dinner table!