Weekly Gardening Tips - June 20, 2009
Lee Stewart
Colorado State University Extension Master Gardener in Larimer County
- Laminate seed packets and make plant stakes by attaching to wooden craft sticks. You will have a picture of the plant and all the information you need is on the packet. You can even wash and re-use them next season.
- Mushrooms are now appearing in yards and gardens due to recent moisture. They are the result of soil fungi feeding on organic matter in the soil. Mulch, wood products and dead roots are the food source. Mushrooms will disappear when the food source is completely decomposed, which can take years. Fungicides will not control mushrooms, but you can either rake them to break them up or dig them. Never eat mushrooms without knowing exactly what they are—some can be poisonous.
- Beautiful basic designs for container plantings don’t take a lot of effort. Symmetry is the answer. Plant a spike in the middle of the planter to add height to trailing flowers. Add four different varieties of annuals that tolerate full sun. Pink geraniums, purple petunias and white alyssum will make a striking combination. You will need two or three of each plant for a 25” container, but any size container may be used according to space available and the location.
For more information, contact your local Colorado State University Extension office.
