The hottest month of the year is upon us!  Gardens are amazing as they change and grow all summer and about this time of year most people should be enjoying the fruits of their spring labors.  Most long blooming perennials are in full swing and annual garden beds and hanging baskets are bursting with blooms!

Around the greenhouse our primary goal in August is watering and cleanup to prepare for fall.  We are pruning perennials, deadheading remaining annual baskets, watering and staying on top of those pesky insects!  All the same things individuals should be doing in their gardens at home this time of year.

Tips for August Gardening:

1. Water, water, water.  Planters and hanging baskets can dry out quickly in the August heat.  On hot days you may need to water twice daily.  Trees and shrubs should get about an inch of water a week this time of year, a good watering once a week helps promote healthy deep root growth.
2. Maintain, maintain, maintain.  Annuals and perennials can tend to get overgrown and leggy this time of year.  Removing spent flowers (deadheading) and cutting plants back will not only improve the appearance of the plant but it will also help promote more blooms and healthy growth.  Getting the most out of your plants is important and with the proper care you should enjoy them right into September!
3. Pesky, Pesky, Pesky.  Look out for insect damage.  If you find a problem the experts at Pahl’s are available to help identify issues and make recommendations on how to combat the problem.  We carry a wide variety of both organic and chemical solutions.

August is also a good time to evaluate your landscape.  Adjusting the mower blades to a 2 ½ to 3 inch height can help lawns provide some of their own shade in turn helping to conserve moisture.  Birds and wildlife will appreciate fresh clean water in fountains and birdbaths as algae can grow fast in warm water.  Keep an eye on vegetable gardens so you are picking at the peak of freshness, seems like zucchini can grow a foot overnight!  August is also a great time to fill in empty spots or replace struggling shrubs and perennials.  We still have an amazing selection of plant material available at spectacular savings!  Annuals & tropicals are 75% OFF! Trees & shrubs are 25% OFF!

Most importantly do not forget to sit back with a cold beverage, relax, and enjoy the scenery!