AugustI don't think I'm stretching the truth any when I say that this is my least favorite month of the year. The heat and humidity seems to settle in as a permanent resident, or so it seems, and sometimes it feels as though there is no relief in sight. The weeds, however, seem to love it and their growth rate is simply astounding! They pop up overnight, creeping and crawling around our beloved plants, surrounding and choking them with no mercy.
The August garden is not very appealing visually either. The summer flowers have peaked and roses and perennials begin to look tired and ragged. But all is not lost - crape myrtles, ferns, caladiums add interest to the garden and shade gardens are especially welcome this time of year. Some annuals, like melapodium and spider flower, seem to thrive in the heat as well. But, enough with the griping. We must endure to keep ahead of the weeds, so slap on the mosquito repellent and press on.
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Water - August is not only hot but often dry as well. Many plants die during this month than any other. Keep plants watered well and if you are planning a vacation, be sure and have someone keep your plants watered while you are away. |
Prune - Remove the heavy seed pods from crape myrtles - this will encourage more blooms in the fall. Light pruning of roses (cut off the spent blossoms) will keep the blooms coming. Prune spent flowers from annuals and perennials. Cut back leggy annuals such as petunias, allysum, spider flowers, and geraniums to rejuvinate the plants. Prune and shape summer flowering shrubs after they have bloomed. |
Pest control
Continue to monitor plants for destructive insects. See the July calendar for some insects to be aware of.
Continue to monitor plants for destructive insects. See the July calendar for some insects to be aware of.