IT’S ALMOST SPRING- TIME TO GET THE GARDEN READY

by Jamie Harrison Retail Manager, The Greenery Inc.

The weather is cold and wet, but spring is just days away. Here is a simple checklist to make your garden dreams become a reality.

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First, before you plant anything, take a soil sample. It is easy to do. Start with a bucket and a clean trowel. Pick a section of your garden- perennial, vegetable, color beds and lawn. The soil should be dry. Each sample should be made up of at least 8-12 scoops, taken 4″-6″ deep from the front, middle and back of the bed. Turf should be from 2″-3″ deep. Label each bag well and bring or send them in for testing. In the Low Country that means the Clemson Extension. Check out their website for more information. http://www.clemson.edu/

A soil sample provides you with three things:

  • The soil pH which tells you acidity or alkalinity.
  • The current soil levels of phosphorus, potassium, calcium, zinc ad manganese.
  • Fertilizer and Lime or Acid recommendation (if needed) for plants growing in your tested area.

 
Knowing where you are either deficient or proficient in these three areas will help you adjust your soil composition. Doing a soil test and correcting soil problem and conditions before planting will give your plants their best start.

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Next, make a calendar of times to prune, feed and fertilize. Make a list of shrubs, grasses and trees that need to be pruned and when. For example Azaleas, Camellias, Gardenias, and Hydrangeas all bloom and then need to be pruned. But some plants such as Oleanders and Vitex bloom on new wood. If you don’t prune them in the beginning of spring, you’re likely to miss the opportunity for blooms.

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Do a walk through your garden to check for plant issues. This could be blackened leaves, spots, browning leaf edges or insects. If you find plants that have issues bring them to your local garden center to help identify the problem. Most things can be treated with a simple organicide or dormant oil. Be sure to get help with identification so that you are using the correct treatment to solve your problem. Feed and fertilize in your yard where needed and make a list of new plants, bulbs and seeds to try this season. Add the dates and planting times to your calendar to make them easier to remember.

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Happy growing!

SPRING BACK INTO GARDENING WITH THE GREENERY’S FREE FEBRUARY SEMINARS AND SPECIAL EVENTS

Tired of the cold weather? Ready to start gearing up for Spring? Then you don’t want to miss these free gardening seminars at The Greenery.

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CREATIVE GARDEN DESIGN FROM START TO FINISH
10:30 a.m. on Saturday, Feb. 7

Come join Garden Design Consultant, Gary Moews, for this informative and fun seminar. You will learn the tips to help you succeed at achieving a creative visual impact for your garden!

TERRARIUMS
10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 11

Add a little bit of green to spruce up your indoor space with a charming terrarium. Lisa Kiggans will be talkin’ terrariums…what plants to choose, how to grow and care for them.

ORCHIDS, BROMELIADS AND TALANZIAS, OH MY!
10:30 a.m. on Saturday, Feb. 21

Not sure how to care for your exotic plants? Don’t be scared. The orchid man, Gary Coleman, will be on hand to share his passion and knowledge of these beautiful plants.

NEW AND UNDER USED LOCAL PLANTS
10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 25 and Saturday, Feb. 28

Come learn to think outside the box with Tim Drake, Greenery Business Developer and Enhancement Designer. He will be discussing the best use of plants you’re not even considering!


Come and bring a friend to these free, informative seminars. RSVPs are encouraged to 843-785-3848 or amymetzger@thegreeneryinc.com. You will receive a special discount in The Greenery Garden Center if you who make a purchase that day.

The Greenery also invites you to join us to celebrate our 42nd Anniversary on Friday, Feb. 13 with Customer Appreciation Day. Throughout the day, all merchandise and plants in the Garden Center and Antique Shop are 20% off. Enjoy refreshments and get there early – the first 100 guests will receive a special gift.

Monday Madness has been such a success, we will continue to welcome you every Monday in February at The Greenery for “happy hour” from 2 to 4 p.m. with Horticulturist, Carol Guedalia.