Evergreens offer contrast

Thu., May 31, 2007

Sandra Nuesse Special to Voice

This week in the yard

“Fertilize evergreens grown in poor soil or not showing bursts of new growth with formulations high in nitrogen, like 16-8-8, or even 21-0-0. Follow label directions for appropriate amounts, and water well.

“Prune deciduous flowering shrubs and trees after they finish blooming to enhance bud growth for next year's flowers.

“Get the water running. Install or repair drip irrigation systems or soaker hoses in flowerbeds and hard to reach areas to avoid overhead watering. Water lawns deeper, then only 2-3 times per week.

“Fertilize annuals and perennials using 5-10-5 or 5-10-10 fertilizer in amounts according to labels. Water before and after, then mulch 2-3 inches deep to retain moisture throughout the summer.

“Many easy annuals like cosmos, zinnias, alyssum, and marigolds can now be seeded directly into the soil. Thin when plants are 1-2 inches high.

“Tender vegetables, tomatoes, peppers and melons can be planted in the garden. Continue to watch nighttime temperatures for surprise cold snaps.

“Control weeds by eliminating them before they go to seed. “Flowers of any color where you didn't plant them should send up warning flares! The seeds are not far behind.

“Weeds in bare fields, untended lots and parking areas, and on private property along rural roads and driveways are homeowners' responsibilities to contain. Bring samples into WSU/Spokane County Extension office at N 222 Havana for identification and solution recommendations.

Weeping, creeping, crawling and prostrate. Upright, spreading, mounding or globular. Gigantic, skyrocket, dwarf, and even miniature. Evergreen trees and shrubs are now available in shapes, shades and sizes to accommodate any setting in the yard, while enhancing overall year round interest.

Now that spring bulbs and flowering shrubs are beginning to fade and perennials are just slowly making their debut, the evergreens are coming alive. All around us, the forested mountains and hillsides are coming alive with the spectacular, chartreuse buds of new growth on evergreens. Now is a great time to add them to the garden.

Evergreens are woody landscape plants that do not loose their foliage or needles during winter months, becoming the cornerstone of landscape interest then. During spring and summer evergreens are great contrasting backgrounds or foregrounds, providing rich color and texture that anchor other blooming plants. Grouped plantings offer privacy, hide unsightly views, block wind and noise, and attract birds, butterflies, and other wildlife.

The nurseries are full of great plants so now is the best time to look for them. Before purchasing, consider the cultural requirements of different species and buy accordingly to insure proper sun exposure, soil pH, drainage, and water. Pine, spruce, cedar, fir, yew, and yes, junipers are great choices for the sunny garden. Got shade? Then try our native hemlocks that come in weeping, prostrate, or upright forms.

If green gets boring then try some of the evergreens that have gold, blue, silver, bronze or variegated needles and add even more year-round interest.

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