Seasonal Maintenance Guide
- Remove winter mulch after last frost danger (early to mid-May)
- Cut back perennials before new growth emerges
- Apply compost to beds, minimal fertilizer for hardy plants
- Plant perennials after soil warms (late May)
- Prune roses after buds swell
- Apply 2-3 inches of mulch to retain moisture
- Water deeply once weekly, twice during extreme heat
- Deadhead regularly to extend bloom period
- Monitor for aphids and Japanese beetles
- Stake tall perennials before wind storms
- Weed regularly before they compete for moisture
- Enjoy peak bloom in July-August
- Plant spring bulbs in September for best establishment
- Divide and transplant overcrowded perennials
- Continue deadheading until first hard frost (late September)
- Leave seed heads for winter bird food
- Water deeply before ground freezes
- Clean up diseased foliage, leave healthy stems for snow catch
- Apply winter mulch after ground freezes for extra protection
- Plan next season and order cold-hardy varieties
- Check that plants have adequate snow cover
- Protect evergreens from winter wind and sun
- Clean and maintain garden tools indoors
- No watering needed during frozen period