Seasonal Maintenance Guide
Spring
- Remove winter mulch from roses and perennials in late April
- Cut back ornamental grasses and perennial stems before new growth
- Divide overcrowded perennials like daylilies and iris
- Prune roses after leaf buds swell but before leaves fully emerge
- Apply compost and organic fertilizer as plants begin growing
- Plant new roses and perennials after last frost (early May)
Summer
- Water deeply during dry spells, especially July heat waves
- Deadhead roses, coneflowers, and daylilies for continued bloom
- Stake tall plants before blooming to prevent wind damage
- Cut back catmint and salvia mid-summer for fresh rebloom
- Monitor for Japanese beetles and treat organically if severe
- Harvest flowers for arrangements and herbs for drying
Fall
- Plant new additions in September for best establishment before winter
- Divide and transplant perennials in early September
- Plant spring bulbs in October for next season
- Continue deadheading until first frost (mid-October)
- Leave healthy seed heads for winter bird food
- Apply 4-6 inches of mulch around roses after first hard freeze
Winter
- Protect tender roses with soil mounding or foam cones
- Brush heavy snow off evergreens and sturdy shrubs
- Plan next season additions and garden expansions
- Order seeds and plants from catalogs
- Avoid walking on frozen beds to prevent soil compaction
- Appreciate winter seed heads and frozen beauty
