Month of September: Divide daylilies and irises. Roses should be cut back by this month. Plant petunias, snapdragons and dianthus for fall through spring color. Trim all shrubs (except azaleas) after they bloom. Broccoli plants and carrot seeds can be planted now.
Month of October: Plant pansies, violas, ornamental cabbage and kale. Good time to plant seeds directly in the ground, such as sweet peas, poppies and larkspur. Outdoor houseplants should be acclimated in shady areas before bringing inside for the winter.
Month of November: Protect tender plants from a freeze; bring inside. Plants in the ground should be mulched with pine straw or leaves. Easter Lily, Muscari, Daffodils and Calla Lilies can be planted now through early December.
Month of December: Christmas cactus sets buds when temperatures drop into the 50’s and 60’s, and when they experience 12 or more hours of darkness. Poinsettias do best indoors in a bright location with good natural light. Norfolk Pine Trees can be used as living Christmas trees. They can live inside as a houseplant in a bright location or outside in part to full sun.
Month of January: Prepare rose beds for Spring. Deadhead bedding plants now. Keep beds mulched to suppress weeds. Great month to plant trees or move trees and shrubs while dormant. Continue to watch for freeze warnings and take precautions.
Month of February: Trim roses to promote spring growth. Fruit trees and shrubs can be planted this month.
Month of March: Look at houseplants to see if re-potting, dividing, or pruning is necessary. Start feeding plants with a slow release granular fertilizer and water deeply after. Tomato plants can be put in the ground; may need to cover if weather gets too cold.
Month of April: Replace cool season annuals with summer annuals: Sun Loving – Vinca, Zinnia, Angelonia, Lantana, Penta, Strapleaf Caladiums, Suncoleus, Salvia, Portulaca; Shade Tolerant – Impatiens, Caladiums, Torenia, Shade Coleus, Hostas, Begonias.
Month of May: Watering is crucial for long, hot summers. Check potted plants often. Foliage of spring flowering bulbs may be cut back. Deadhead as necessary through summer months to keep flowering plants growing. May bedding plants: coleus, dusty miller, blue daze, Angelonia and lantana. PLEASE know your caterpillars before you destroy!