GARDEN CALENDAR February list of what to do in the garden.

Lawns

• Rake fallen leaves carried by the wind into the yard to prevent suffocation.

• Review lawn service contracts and make changes.

• Tune-up and repair lawnmowers before the spring rush.

• Avoid damage to the grass. Keep foot traffic to a minimum when soil is frozen.

Flowers

• Check fall-planted perennials, water if needed.

• Watch for frost heaving of tender perennials. Push back into soil and water.

• Replenish winter protective mulch around hybrid tea roses, protecting the graft.

• Check bulbs in storage for decay and discard.

• Prepare orders for mail.

• Start seeds for transplanting.

• Obtain a soil test and make needed improvements.

Trees And Shrubs

• Check for rabbit damage on young trees and shrubs.

• Water fall-planted trees and shrubs.

• Water evergreens if soil is dry and not frozen.

• Apply dormant oil for control of scales and mites.

• Begin spring pruning on warm days.

• Delay pruning spring-flowering trees and shrubs until after bloom, enjoy the full flowering effect.

• Force twigs of spring shrubs into blooming indoors, adding a splash of color.

• Remove snow carefully from limbs with broom.

Vegetables And Fruits

• Create garden layouts to assist with planning process.

• Order seeds.

• Obtain a soil test and make needed improvements.

• Start broccoli, cauliflower, and cabbage transplants.

• Prune apple, pear, and cherry trees.

• Prune peach and nectarines just prior to bloom time.

• Select varieties and order new fruit trees.

• Check for rabbit and rodent damage

MY GARDEN (Use this space to list additional tasks to accomplish in your garden.)

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• on trees.

• Apply manure or compost to garden areas and incorporate for soil improvement.

• Prepare garden soil for early planting.

• Avoid working the soil when wet.

• Check stored seeds and discard old supply.

• Prune grapes, raspberries, and blackberries.

• Jumpstart the compost bin. Turn and add water.

Indoor Plants

• Rotate plants in sunlight to produce a balanced plant.

• Withhold fertilization until spring light arrives.

• Check plants for insects, mites, and other problems.

• Remove dust from plants by placing in the shower under room temperature water.

• Give a plant to a friend for a winter pick-me-up.

• Repot root-bound plants in a 1-inch larger pot.

• Take cuttings of plants to make new ones for friends.

• Shape plants for spring growth to produce a more balanced and attractive plant.

Johnson County K-State Research and Extension recommends environmentally-friendly gardening practices. This starts by identifying and monitoring problems. Cultural practices and controls are the best approach for a healthy garden. If needed, use physical, biological or chemical controls. Always consider the least toxic approach first. Dennis Patton is the horticulture agent for Johnson County K-State Research and Extension. For free information fact sheets, visit www.johnson.ksu.edu, or call the Extension office at 913-715-7000.