Begin planting trees, shrubs, and perennials.

Divide and transplant perennials after flowering,

Plant annuals after danger of frost is past (May 15)

Encourage butterflies and bees by planting native species.

Deadhead spring bulbs when they are done flowering to direct energy back into bulbs. Do not remove foliage; let it die back naturally.

Prune spring flowering trees and shrubs (crabapple, forsythia, lilac, viburnum) immediately after blooming. Pruning later in the season would remove all of next spring’s blooms.

Avoid pruning oaks and elms between mid-April and mid-July.

Apply 3 to 4 inches of mulch around plants. This will reduce weeds, conserve moisture, and keep roots cool.

Keep weeds controlled; they are easier to pull when small. Avoid deep cultivation around shallow rooted plants.

Stake tall and floppy perennials as they grow.

Monitor all plants regularly for disease and insect problems. Problems are easier to control if detected early.

Check evergreens, especially spruce, for spider mites. Treat as new growth begins if needed. Place a white sheet of paper under branch and tap lightly, looking for moving pin-head size spots to see spider mites.

Apply fungicide sprays to roses to control diseases such as blackspot.

Take time to enjoy spring. Happy gardening!