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Ahhhh, summer is in full swing with the Summer Solstice coming up on Sunday, the 21st. The longest day of the year and the peak of the sun’s power.
There are many traditions surrounding the Summer Solstice but my favorite is simply to enjoy the sun shining on my face and absorbing all that energy.
Speaking of energy, our vegetable gardens have been producing those cool season options and the tomatoes are looking great!
Your spring annual flowers may be looking limp, if so, switch them out for some summer winners like calibrachoa, snapdragons, geraniums and more.
We might also be experiencing some pest damage from 4 lined plant bugs and more. The “good bugs” are out now too. Read more on the University of Minnesota Extension Yard and Garden News here.
There is an unpleasant and ugly looking pest, sawfly larvae out now that feeds on trees and shrubs. These caterpillar-like creatures form webs in trees and shrubs and feed and munch the foliage.
According to the University of Minnesota Extension, this is also a great time to pinch-back some annual plants like zinnia, basil, and peppers. Many of the cultivars we grow benefit from having a bushier, more compact form. You can see the video here.
Some of your houseplants might enjoy some outdoor time as much as you do. Don’t put them in direct sunlight or expose them to intense winds right away!! They need to acclimate to the outdoors first. You can do that by placing them in a shady, protected area for at least a few days and then gradually increase the amount of sunlight and air movement they get.
I have some on my enclosed back porch that has a greenhouse roof. And finally, with some recent rainfall (although we’re still in a deficit in my area), our lawns are looking better. My clover looks fabulous!
If your area has been more dry, don’t mow drought or heat-stressed turf. If it’s been really wet and you can’t get out to mow, when you finally do, mow in stages so you’re not lopping off too much at once, this generally rips at the grass blades. Afterward, blow out any clumped clippings or rake them out to dry.
Now is a good time to think about those plants you’ll sink into the ground this Fall! Fall is the best time to plant trees and shrubs… and perennials too!