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May Gardening Tips:

Project:	When to do it:
Planting –	Continue to plant container gardens, use larger containers and SoilMoist to allow less frequent watering.  Plant summer blooming perennials and annuals.  Choose heat-tolerant plants like purslane and bougainvillea for hanging baskets in full sun.
Birds –	Spring migration continues into mid-May.  Clean birdbaths often and keep feeders full, and clean them after rainstorms to prevent soggy spoiled seed.  Even non-birders can keep fresh water and food out at this time (and also during fall migration) to help our feathered friends.
Vegetable Gardens –	Plant okra, cucumbers, pumpkins, basil, garlic chives, peppers and sunflowers from seed.  Container veggie transplants from the nursery in larger pots are okay to plant during May.
Weeding –	Be vigilant about pulling weeds early.  Make sure areas are mulched properly to prevent future weeds from germinating and help to retain moisture.
Pruning –	Pinch tips of coleus to prevent flowering and encourage bushier, fuller plants.  Remove spent blooms on spring and summer annuals to promote new blooms.
Fertalizing –	Fertilize flower beds and vegetable gardens with slow-release organic fertilizers like Ladybug Flower Power or Micro-Life. Containers can be fertilized with water- soluble John’s Recipe or Hasta-Gro
Water –	Deep root watering on trees, lawns and shrubs is best.  It encourages roots to move down into the soil where they will be less susceptible to moisture changes.  Avoid short periods of shallow watering, use a tree gator or soaker hose to aid in slow, deep watering.
Pests –	Keep an eye out for pests as well as beneficial insects in your vegetable garden.  Pick off pests by hand, check for slugs and snails early in the morning or in the evenings when they are active. Ladybugs are excellent for aphid control.
Lawn –	Continue to water between rain events. Apply molasses or compost to ensure healthy soil for healthy turf roots.