New England
April, 2001
Regional Report
Start Mowing
Lawns are starting to grow, so you should be starting to mow. Be sure lawn mower blades are sharp so they cut grass cleanly, without leaving ragged edges in the lawn to attract disease. Remove only one third of the height of the grass at any one time, and leave the grass clippings to supply fertilizer to the lawn.
Plant Broccoli
It's time to start planting cole crops such as broccoli, cabbage, and cauliflower. These crops should be planted about 2 weeks before your last frost date, on raised beds in soil amended with compost. Don't be concerned if the leaves turn red or purple. It's often a sign of phosphorus deficiency due to cool soils and will go away once the soil warms.
Plant Snapdragons
Transplants of snapdragons can be planted outdoors now in warm areas. Snapdragons tolerate below- freezing temperatures and flower best in cool weather. Plant them in groups and try the larger varieties that produce flower stalks that are good for cutting.
Divide Perennials
Now is a good time to dig and divide late-blooming perennials, such as asters and daylilies. If left undivided, the plants become unproductive and overcrowded. Dig up the clump, and use a sharp spade to cut it into pie-shaped wedges. Replant these divisions in a full-sun location in well-drained soil, and keep them watered.
Harvest Asparagus
As your asparagus shoots start emerging, harvest spears at least pencil width from asparagus plants that are at least three years old. Cut the spears at ground level with a sharp knife and eat them that day for the best flavor.
