The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Making a whole list of new garden jobs for 2017
On my phone, I keep a list of “Things to Do Next Year.” Most gardeners do the same, whether physically or mentally. Here are some of my notes to myself for 2017 that you might find useful, too.
■ Pull mimosa weed, mulberry weed and chickweed when seen.
I’m well into my campaign to eliminate these three thugs from my landscape. All three are easy to spot and easy to pull. If I can remove them before they set seed, I’ll be even further along.
■ Reduce the lawn. Plant mondo grass in shade.
My lawn has become shadier over the years. There is no grass that can thrive in the conditions I have, so I plant shade-loving mondo grass wherever my lawn grass is fading.
■ Get the soil tested. Does my lawn and landscape need lime? The only way to know is to get it tested. It’s cheap and easy, and I have details at georgiasoiltest.com.
■ Move the rose and hydrangea.
One of my roses is too close to a path, and it grabs me whenever I pass by. I have a sunny and less troublesome spot in mind for it. My ‘Lady in Red’ hydrangea is being smothered by a nearby aucuba. Winter is a great time to move landscape shrubs.
■ Plant flowers among tomatoes.
Gardens look so much more attractive when flowers are scattered throughout. And the flowers bring in beneficial insects and pollinators. What’s not to like?
■ Sharpen pruners. It’s a job that can be done indoors, where it’s warm, and I know from experience how nice it is to use a sharp tool that’s properly lubricated.
■ Put bench by Little Free Library. I love seeing the kids in my neighborhood stop at the library box at the corner of my yard. They know they often will find something appealing to read. I think they need a bench to sit on and read, and I need a place to sit and wave at passing cars. Library details: littlefreelibrary.org.
And here’s one for all of us:
■ Look for gardening information that is appropriate for Georgia.
The internet is full of gardening information, but much of it is not suitable for our area. This makes it easy to get confused about what plants will grow well here, common pest problems for our area, and the timing of garden activities. Always look for gardening information focused on Hardiness Zones 7 and 8. For information on a wide variety of garden topics that is specifically prepared for Georgia gardeners, check out my list at bit.ly/UGAhort.