In The Garden
May 26, 2026 12:09PM ● By JB Culbertson
Planning to put plants in the ground, remember that most perennials prefer well drained soil. For new beds, till the area to a depth of about 10 inches, add a few inches of compost and till again. If you are planting in an established bed, work compost into the top 6-8 inches of soil. Now you are ready to dig. Don’t plant your new perennials too deep. As a general rule, the top of the perennial (the eye/ where the stems will come out) should be just below the surface. After digging, build a cone of soil in the bottom of the hole. Place the roots in the hole, spreading them around the surface of the cone. Gently refill the hole, firming the soil with your hands. Water the area well. It could take up to eight weeks for your roots to produce growth. Once the plant is established, add 2-3inches, a thick layer of mulch, leaving a few inches bare around the base of the plant.
Happy Gardening…
If you are planting Summer Bulbs…Dig a hole or bed to proper depth for the type of bulb being planted and loosen the soil at the bottom of the hole or bed. Plant roots or bulbs (usually pointed tips up). Be sure that there are no pockets to hold water. Cover with loose soil and pack well. Then give a good initial watering. That’s all… Now let Mother Nature take over.
Keep perennial plants watered during their first season but avoid daily sprinklings. A weekly soaking will encourage a healthier root system. Add a layer of compost each spring to provide nutrients and maintain soil health. Many perennials, including peonies, poppies, iris, hellebores, bee balm, and lilies-of-the-valley, are known to be slow starters. In fact, the first few years you may only get a few leaves or blooms. Don’t let that discourage you, these plants will reward you handsomely once they are established.
Plant dahlias at the same time you plant your tomatoes. When your tomatoes begin to flower, stimulate them by mixing 2 Tablespoons Epsom Salts in a gallon of warm water. Use this to liberally soak soil around tomato plants. Don’t splash the mixture on the plant itself. By June 10th the Sweet Pea and the Stella should be blooming. By Father’s Day the green beans will be ready, and maybe the lettuce in the next week. Make sure to give your sweet potato vine plenty of water, but don’t overwater the geraniums…
Attract beneficial insects by planting Dill and angelica in the garden. Remove overripe produce so it won’t attract picnic beetles and other pests. Control soft-bodied pests such as aphids and spider mites with insecticidal soap or wash off your plants with a strong jet of water. Water early in the day so foliage can dry quickly. To avoid spreading diseases, let leaves dry before you touch them. Allow adequate space between plants for air circulation.
My friend, Butch, who is an herbalist, reminds us to keep bugs and mosquitos away from your patio or deck by planting Lemongrass, Lemon balm, Lavender, Rosemary, etc. These plants contain oils that deter bugs. Try any plant that is very fragrant.
Happy Gardening…