GARDEN CALENDAR
GOOD PLANNING IN JULY KEY
TO REMAINDER OF SEASON
July is an important month for gardeners; it
sets up the rest of the season.
As cool weather crops fade away or are
harvested, others can be put in place. Plenty
of maintenance to do too, which keeps the
garden thriving.
Take advantage of sales
This is the month that starts steep discounts
at nurseries and garden centers.
Even though it’s not the ideal time to plant
trees and shrubs, if they are found for a deal,
just make sure they get the water needed until
the ground freezes.
Most of the larger plants I’ve used in building
a woodland garden have been purchased this
time of the year. Some needed a little TLC but
were fine with a little help from the gardener.
I’m also going to the nursery every few days
looking for plants to fill holes in the garden.
Hanging baskets, other mixed containers of an-nuals,
perennials, vegetables and herbs all can
be found on sale.
I can’t resist hot pepper plants already filled
with fruit. There’s always a place to squeeze
them in here or there.
Divide and conquer
July is the best time to divide iris plants.
Never replant them too deep. When daylilies
are done blooming, they can be divided this
month, too.
Don’t forget the seeds
There are lots of seeds that can be started
now, too. Bush beans, beets, lettuce, Swiss
chard, carrots (see Page 4), arugula, other
greens, peas and many other vegetables can be
sowed now for a fall and early-winter harvest.
Add compost to any bed that’s being replant-ed.
It will revitalize the soil.
July is the perfect time to divide iris plants.
8 | JULY 2018 • Vo l . 3 , I s s u e 7