Regional Reminders
February 20, 2003
New England
By
Suzanne DeJohn,
Candler, NC
Order Fruit Trees
Now is the time to order bare-root fruit trees. Bare-root trees are shipped in late winter or early spring before they start to grow. Trees will be shipped for planting time in your area, and they should be planted immediately upon arrival.
Start Onions
Long-season alliums, such as leeks and onions, should be started from seed now. Unlike fast-growing broccoli and tomatoes, onions need 10 to 12 weeks of growth indoors before they go in the garden. Sprinkle the seed on top of seed-starting mix, keep it moist, and as soon as the seedlings emerge, place the flats under grow lights so they grow strong.
Holiday Cactus Care
Now is a good time to propagate Christmas cactus. After flowering, holiday cactus will put on new growth. Take 4-inch cuttings of the shoots, dip the cut ends in rooting hormone powder, and pot them up to form new plants for next year.
Clean Pruning Tools
Before the main pruning season starts, take apart hand pruners and shears, sharpen the blades, oil the levers, and remove any rust. Pruning trees will go much faster and be easier on your hands when you use sharp, well-maintained equipment.
Repot Houseplants
Now is a good time to repot any houseplants with roots coming out of the drainage holes. Choose a pot one size larger than the current pot, remove the plant, trim any errant roots, and repot using fresh potting soil.
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