Weekly Gardening Tips - October 17, 2009
Mitzi Davis
Colorado State University Master Gardener in Larimer County
- When placing mulch around trees, do not pile it high around the trunk like a mulch volcano. This can smother tree roots and hold unwanted moisture close to the trunk providing a breeding ground for fungal and insect problems. A layer of mulch two to four inches deep is appropriate. Keep mulch at least four inches away from the trunk.
- Now is the time to pot up paperwhites and amaryllis for holiday bloom. Water the bulbs, but don’t over water or the bulbs can rot. Keep them in a bright, warm location for strong flower stems. Check the garden centers and catalogs for new varieties including miniature and double amaryllis.
- Cucumber beetles, squash bugs, Colorado potato beetles and European corn borers will spend the winter in debris left in the garden. Remove dead plant material and compost or plow it under and you will have fewer insect pests in the garden next year.
For more information, contact your local Colorado State University Extension office.
