Oklahoma City Spring Planting Tips - How Does Your Garden Grow?

You probably know the old saying April showers bring May flowers. So here are some tips to get your garden into shape and get some color going with a little natural curb appeal. With any luck we've seen the last frost of the season here in Oklahoma City. Mid April is a perfect time to begin planting summer bulbs, annual seeds and bedding plants as well as warm season vegetables and herbs. If you want to lay down a new sod lawn, the end of April is an ideal time. Prune, Weed, and Clear: Before you get started with anything else, it's a good idea to prune back branches from trees and shrubs especially if you have flowering shrubs and you want to get them into nice shape before they bloom. Make sure to prune back roses before you see new growth in order to promote stronger healthier shoots that will produce more blooms. Prepare Beds For Planting: Clear debris, dead plants and weeds from the garden and start with a clean slate. Pull back winter mulch and cultivate 10 to 12 inches mixing a layer of at least 4 inches of compost or new nutrient rich topsoil to reenergize your beds and prepare them for plantings. Plan and Shop: Take some time to research annuals and perennials for your area that fit your light quality. Then take the time to shop your local garden stores where knowledgeable experts can answer specific questions you may have. Plant: Spring's cool moist conditions make it the perfect time to plant trees, shrubs as well as perennials such as daylilies and hostas. This is also a good time to plant your seeds for cool-season flowers such as pansies, poppy and snapdragons since they can take a little frost. If you started seedlings indoors you can replant those as well. Make sure once you've planted your gardens you water generously to help the plants adjust. Divide Overgrown Perennials: This is the time to dig up your iris's, asters and hostas and split them to give each plant more room in the garden. You can replant them and use them elsewhere or give them away to help others enhance their gardens. Just a few thoughts given to your spring planning can make all the difference and help your garden grow into a great looking addition to any landscape around your house.