For June, A Month of Appreciation and Anticipation

June is a transition month in both the calendar and the garden. While we remember with appreciation the beauty of the early flowering trees, azaleas, rhododendrons, daffodils and tulips, we become awestruck at the delphinium, gaillardia, frikartii asters and later blooming hybrid azaleas that now grace our landscapes.

Although the days are getting warmer, nights are still relatively cool and the blazing heat of August remains only a memory from last year. If you find areas of the garden that can use definition, June is an excellent time to plant trees and shrubs that will provide the structure you’ve been looking for. Nurseries are well stocked with your favorite varieties and eagerly provide information on proper planting and watering methods. A little planning will ensure a successful weekend project.

June is a time of appreciation for what the spring garden has brought and an anticipation of the glories the summer garden will soon bring. June is also the time for quick and easy housekeeping chores. Your investment of a few hours now will pay off handsomely later.

• Rhododendrons, camellias, and azaleas should receive an application of ‘Rhododendron’ or evergreen type fertilizer immediately after they have finished flowering. Deadheading developing seedpods from rhododendrons and azaleas is also recommended. Be careful not to damage next year’s flower buds, which are developing just under the seedpods.
• Remove the dead foliage from spring flowering bulbs after it has died back naturally.
• Pinch back any plants that may be getting leggy.
• Clean up and sharpen your garden tools in anticipation of summer use. They probably need it after the rigorous spring cleanup and planting you put them through.

After the housekeeping is done, relax and enjoy your garden. Organize a neighborhood garden tour. Take lots of photos to scrapbook another year’s successes. Remember, it is important to take some time to smell the roses.