Pacific Northwest
May, 2011
Regional Report
Plant Warm Season Annuals
Our last frost date is typically April 15. After this date you can plant warm-season annuals, herbs, and vegetables such as tomatoes and peppers. Petunias and marigolds can be planted now as well.
Mow on a Regular Schedule
Regular lawn mowing will keep your grass thick and healthy which helps crowd out weeds. Mow at about two inches high in the spring. When the weather gets hot later in the summer, raise the mower height to about three inches.
Plant Summer Flowering Bulbs
Plant tender summer flowering bulbs, including cannas, tuberous begonias, dahlias and gladiolus now, as the soil begins to warm.
Mulch Flowerbeds
About the time the tulips stop blooming, the soil has warmed enough that you can apply mulch around trees, shrubs, and flowerbeds. Mulch helps conserve moisture and reduces weeds.
Aerate and Reseed Your Lawn
Most lawns should be aerated every three to four years to alleviate compaction and improve drainage. Rent a machine that takes out plugs of soil. Leave the plugs on the lawn; they will dissolve with rainwater or water from the hose. You can reseed after aerating if your lawn is thin.
