Things to do in August

1. Keep an eye on lawns to spot problems early and treat accordingly.  Insects such as chinch bugs(treat with diatomaceous earth) and fungi such as grey leaf spot(treat with serenade) are two things to watch out for.  Both organic products can be found in our plant care shed.
2. Hummingbirds are here!!  Migrating hummingbirds can be found at your feeders and natural nectar sources.  Keeping feeders clean, filled, and in a shady area will encourage visitors.
   Recipe for Nectar:
   Bring 4 cups of water to a boil, add 1 cup of granulated sugar, stir until dissolved.
   Allow to cool, fill feeders.  Keep excess sealed in refrigerator.
3. Natural nectar sources for hummingbirds include turk’s cap, hamelia, shrimp plant, firespike, salvia, lobelia(cardinal flower), Mexican oregano, pride of Barbados, anisacanthus, and cigar plants.  These are all hummer magnets.
4. Seeds to plant now include cucumbers, calendula, snapdragon and alyssum. Plan for the fall vegetable garden and choose seeds for planting next month.  Shop our Botanical Interests seed racks at the outside checkout.
5. For preparing fall gardens, top dress with 2-4” of organic matter: composts     A layer of pinestraw will keep weeds at bay until seeds or transplants have been placed.
6. Plant transplants for tomatoes and peppers now.  Keep young plants protected from intense midday heat by placing cages over plants and clothes pinning newspaper or cardboard at the second rung level.  This temporary shade device can be removed once plants reach height of the cardboard; they are established.
7. Use seaweed spray such as Medina Liquid Seaweed to boost the immune system of plants.  A healthy plant is more resistant to insect infestations and fungal problems.  A spray down every two weeks that covers the entire surface of all leaves will do the job.
8. Continue slow, deep watering to encourage proper root growth and prevent runoff.  Watering longer and less often encourages deep root growth and healthier plants.  Soaker hoses or a regular hose turned on to a slow drip provide ways to do this.
9. Feed the soil.  Medina Soil Activator and Lady Bug Terra Tonic actually feed the micro-organisms in the soil which improves soil quality and reduces compaction, in turn increase water holding capabilities.  Healthy plants start with healthy soil.
10. Mulch, Mulch, Mulch.  Mulching keeps plant roots cooler and weed seeds at bay.  Apply 3” deep around trees and shrubs. Add compost around annuals, herbs, and vegetables.  Remember: never pile mulch against the base of a plant.