Trisha Geddon
Although it is too early for gardeners to plant seeds in the ground, winter is the perfect time to plan spring and summer gardens.
Oklahoma State University Extension Associate Specialist and weekly television show, Oklahoma Gardening
“What do you want your garden to look like? Write it down and make a plan,” said Henges. “Make a list of plants you like and want to grow. It may be helpful to walk through your garden space and note the sunny and shaded areas. This information will help you with your plant selection.”
Seasoned growers need to remember what worked last year and what didn’t. Henges said previous failures should not deter plans for this year. Get that information, learn from it, fix the problem, or try something else.
“It’s easy to get overwhelmed with your head. Start small this year with just a few plants or containers. You’ll be able to adjust as the season progresses,” said Henges. “Our growing season may enter the fall, so there will be plenty of time to adjust our plans.”
David Hillock, consumer gardener at OSU Extension, said it’s easier to start the growing season in a tidy space. Become. The organic matter is composted and can later be used to improve the soil in traditional garden beds, raised beds and containers.
“High-quality soil provides essential nutrients and the right texture for roots to spread,” Hillock said. It is recommended.”
Adding as much organic matter as possible improves soil structure, and soil testing every few years can provide guidance on nutrient supplementation and timing of fertilization.
Gardeners who may have had their tools stored in haste at the end of last year’s growing season should take time to adjust over the next few weeks. Sharpen hand tools and loppers for easier pruning. increase. Check power tool spark her plugs and oil her level to make sure it is working properly.
Hillock says winter is a good time to prune because deciduous trees are dormant.
“Pruning fruit trees should be delayed as late in the season as possible. Pruning allows more light to penetrate the growing fruit,” he said. “Also note that young trees are more likely to suffer frost damage than older trees.”
Early spring is a good time to start weed control. Apply preemergence herbicide to prevent weeds before they appear.
“For gardeners who can’t wait to get dirt under their fingernails, start planting seedlings. Once the temperature is consistently above 45 degrees, harden these seedlings and prepare them for outdoor planting.” says Henges.
“Container plants that were brought indoors last season can be brought back outdoors after frost or freeze hazards have arisen. It’s a good idea to have some frost protection in case of unexpected sub-zero temperatures.”
The OSU Extension brings more gardening information online. Check out the Oklahoma Gardening website for show segments, links to gardening resources, featured recipes, and more. “Oklahoma Gardening” also has a channel on YouTube and can be found on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. The new season of “Oklahoma Gardening” kicks off on his February 11th at OETA.
The OSU Extension uses research-based information to help all Oklahoma solve community problems and concerns, promote leadership, and manage resources wisely across the state’s 77 counties. Most of the information is available almost free.
Gedon is a communications specialist with OSU’s Agricultural Communications Services.