•

A special rose for mom

Miniature or fairy roses are a compact perfect rose in miniature. They come in fantastic colors and perfect in ornamental ceramic containers or planters. They are hardy in the garden and little pruning is necessary. Easy to grow, they work well with annuals hiding the soil. Roses do not like wet feet but need to be watered regularly and deeply. Use a humus type soil and keep moist. Mulching with wood chips works well to keep moisture in and helps control some soil borne diseases. The plant likes good air circulation to prevent mildew. A great plant that should be in the front of your garden so that it can be enjoyed.

from the 5/8/2003 Hamlen's Helping Hints.
Subscribe below to receive them by email.

•

Using your garden compost

Perennials need the garden soil to be ammended regularly. The plants will respond with beautiful blooms and stronger growth. When using your own compost, sift with a screen to keep back the larger pieces. Before spreading, weed area thoroughly and then spread compost 2-3” thick on the surface. Lightly fork into the top surface of the garden soil. The rain and insects will help move the compost down to the root zone. Mulching after composting will help to keep the weeds controllable during the growing season and then can be tilled into the garden in the fall to add more organic material. Mulch only after a good rainfall. This will insure that the soil is moist. Wood shavings or leaf mold are the best to use. Apply 2-3” thick on top of the soil.

from the 5/28/2003 Hamlen's Helping Hints.
Subscribe below to receive them by email.