Up-Keep in the Garden

1. Up-Keep in the Garden

2. Weeding • Weeds • All plants not intended to grow in the spot they are in • Should be removed to allow wanted plants to grow • Continual weeding is needed to keep area in good condition

3. Watering • Water based on plants needs • In the sun all day = daily watering • In part shade = daily watering • Shade = check soil for dampness, usually every few days • Each plant has its own water requirements

4. Transplanting • Moving plants from their current spot to a new area • New plants brought in • Plants are overgrown and need to be spread out • Change in the garden plan

5. Steps in Transplanting • Step 1 • Prepare the new planting site. • Dig a hole • Mix the soil you removed with peat moss and fertilizer • Loosen the soil in the bottom of the hole with a rake • Step 2 • Cut back the top growth • Water thoroughly to be sure all roots are wet

6. Steps in Transplanting • Step 3 • Push your spade into the soil in a circle around the plant. • Step on the shovel with your foot and rock the handle back and forth to loosen the root ball. • Step 4 • Go around the circle again, driving the shovel deeper into the soil • Rock the shovel back and forth to further loosen the root ball.

7. Steps in Transplanting • Step 5 • Push the shovel into the same circle a third time, angling the shovel so that its blade cuts the soil under the root ball of the plant. • Step 6 • Grasp the plant near its base and remove it from the ground. • Shake it a little to remove any loose bits of soil from the roots.

8. Steps in transplanting • Step 7 • Place the root ball into the prepared hole. • Gently spread the roots out from the base toward the perimeter of the planting hole. • Step 8 • Back fill the hole with the improved soil. • Firm it down gently but firmly with your foot as you go.

9. Steps in Transplanting • Step 9 • Water the transplanted plant. • Set a hose with a small trickle of water near the base of the plant. • Step 10 • Spread fertilizer the help the plant grow.