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Hello! I’m Ted. If you’re like me, you’re getting excited about your spring garden. Here are a few tips.
Tip #1: It’s almost time…but wait for it!
Tip #1: It’s almost time…but wait for it!
If you left stems, leaf litter, and seed heads standing through winter, great work! Some native bees and butterflies are still overwintering. Leaf them bee a little longer. (Sorry, I can’t resist a dad joke). Wait for several consistent days above 50°F before cutting them back. When you do cut stems, leave them 12–18 inches tall because many native bees nest in hollow stalks.
Small changes can make a big difference in pollinator populations.
Tip #2: It’s invasive termination time.
Tip #2: It’s invasive termination time.
It’s a good time to pull up invasive plants. They often leaf out earlier than natives which makes them easier to spot. Removing them now reduces competition before native plants begin active growth. Check out last month’s Ted Talk for more info.
Tip #3: It’s cold stratification time.
Tip #3: It’s cold stratification time.
And, if you haven’t already, start cold stratifying seeds that require this process to germinate (for example, milkweed and cone flower). It’s simple:: put seeds in a damp paper towel inside a plastic bag or Tupperware and stick them in the fridge for a couple weeks. They’ll be ready to plant when the weather is right. Questions? Email me!
Thanks for coming to my Ted Talk,
Ted
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