April

These suggestions for your garden are intended for central Texas.  However, if you are not in central Texas these suggestions may still be helpful but may need to be done earlier or later in the season depending on your location.

 

April is a good time for planting your annual color bedding plants.  By this time of the year soil temperatures are warming, we are beyond any more frost, and the summer heat has not set in. In shade and morning sun areas Impatiens, Begonias, Coleus, Polka Dot, Torenia, and Caladiums should do very well. For areas with full and afternoon sun Geraniums, Salvia, Purslane, Moss Rose, Marigolds, Verbena, Zinnia, Vinca, and Dianthus to name a few of the most colorful. Many of these can be planted from seed at this time. There are many perennials for sun and shade that once planted will give you years color without having to replant every year. Planting any of these with a little soil preparation and a little bone and blood meal should give you color all season.

 

This is a good month for feeding your existing trees and shrubs.  Using the tree fertilizer spikes is an easy once a year long-lasting method of fertilizing. If you prefer granules Milorganite, Gardenville Soil Food, and Ferti-lome Tree and Shrub Food can be used spring and fall.

 

Vegetables and Herbs need to be put in now that danger of frost is over. Cucumber, Squash, Eggplant, Watermelon, Cantaloupe, Tomatoes, and Peppers are now available in seed or little starter plants. Basil, Cilantro, Oregano, Parsley, Thyme, Rosemary, Sage, and the Mints are also now available as little plants or seed.

 

Mark S. Ney

Certified Texas Nursery Professional #4749