All the Dirt on Gardening

Sorry - no photos tonight - Blogger won't take any uploads - probably the lightening, rain, etc. If you are in Tulsa June 7 and 8, don't miss an opportunity to go to the Audubon Habitat Garden Tour. Six gardens, $5.00 - Information: 918-521-8894. So, here's a question for you: What will you do about your garden when you go on vacation this summer? Do you hire someone to come water? What about deadheading, harvesting vegetables, watching for insect infestations, etc.? J. L. Hudson Seeds issued a catalog update with new offerings. So far, I've had good luck with their seeds this spring. Let me know what your experience has been. The American Society of Landscape Architects publishes an interesting newsletter online. This week they talked about Earth Day and linked to a great green blog called Two Steps Forward written by Joel Makower . Makower writes about sustainable business, clean technology and green marketplace. What's going on in your garden?

Preparing the garden to leave for vacation is a little easier this year since everything outside is already watered and beds are unlikely need more. If someone is coming over to check on the potted plants for you - they dry out in a couple of days even if the ground is a sponge - gather them together under a tree or on a hard surface and definitely near a water source. Move all hanging baskets to one location so none will be missed by the good Samaritan who is caring for them. To the extent possible, put houseplants in the bathtub or on a kitchen counter where they will be noticed. For some reason one plant is always missed if visitors are left to their own devices. Add to your planning list a thorough bug and disease check. Look under the leaves of plants that tend to be vulnerable, like new trees and shrubs or pot bound houseplants. Since you won't be home to watch them for damage, use a gentle spray for insect and fungus protection. Safer Soap is great for many plant problems a...