GARDEN TASKS FOR JUNE
We have had a long, mild spring, and summer arrives June 21, the day of the summer solstice, the longest day of the year. June is the show time for the big-leaf hydrangea in the Mid-South. In general the pace slows, and the spring floral fanfare wanes, giving way to the verdant summer green. The focus becomes watering.
EARLY THIS MONTH
Prune the late-flowering azaleas after they have finished. Most trees and evergreen shrubs can be cut for shaping now.
Early in the month, finish any planting of ornamentals, but remember plants planted during this month will need to be watered well and monitored closely during the summer to become established.
It is not too late to start or overseed a warm-season lawn.
Plant caladiums now. They grow quickly when the weather is hot. Plant zinnia and sunflower seeds outdoors. Plant tomatoes, peppers, snap beans, sweet corn, squash and watermelons in prepared ground; also plant okra and eggplant now.
Fertilize your warm-season lawn grasses with a complete fertilizer that contains a slow-release nitrogen.
Watch for broad-leaved weeds in your lawn, and treat with a post-emergent broad-leaf herbicide if needed.
MIDDLE OF THE MONTH
Slugs are active on warm summer nights in wellwatered gardens. Watch for these nocturnal gastropods, and bait for them with nontoxic iron phosphate. Don’t use products containing metaldehyde baits if pets will be around. A dish of beer, if monitored daily, will attract them, and they will fall in and drown.
Now is a good time to divide and replant bearded Iris. Cut back foliage to 6-inch fans before replanting.
Prune climbing roses to control growth after they have finished flowering.
ANY TIME THIS MONTH
Plant warm-season annuals and bedding plants. Most ornamental plants can be fertilized now. I like slow-release products or products with organic nitrogen.
Mulch your garden with 1-2 inches of organic material to thwart weeds and prepare for the dry summer. It is best to weed first, then apply fertilizer or lime if needed before mulching.
Fescue lawns grow very slowly in the heat. Mow fescue lawns higher starting this month; 3 inches is a good rule of thumb. Be sure to give adequate water. Start woody plants from softwood cuttings. Don’t forget to water during dry spells, at least 1 inch per week.