Marching Forward

By Kay Olson

     March has always been a time for Mardi Gras, St. Patrick’s Day, and the beginning of Lent. It also marks the beginning of Spring! We’ll bet you have your plans already down, but what about your yard?

     Everything from February – power raking, aerating, fertilizing, and pre- and post-emergent care – still applies in March. And yet, there’s more!

     Bugs freak most people out, but they can also damage your greenery. (They party hard, too.) One of the best ways to be rid of pests is the use of insecticides, and an easy way to deliver insecticides safely is known as an insect drench. This is perfect for trees and shrubs, such as rose bushes (affected by thrips, aphids, and leaf miners) or pines (impacted by pine tip moths and bores).

     Just don’t use the insect drench on stuff you eat!

     Wondering about pruning your trees and shrubs? You came to the right place. Trees are still okay to prune (in most cases) while the tree is dormant, there’s no new leaves growing, and there’s no buds. Different trees have different signs of dead wood, so be sure to do some research before grabbing those pruning shears. Most shrubs are fine to prune this month - however, some (such as lilac, forsythia, and spanish broom) flower on the growth from last year, and it’s best to prune them once they’re done flowering.

     This also gives you an opportunity to enjoy the rewards before the work begins!

     Above all, March is a month of connection. Whether you’re connecting to your friends, religion, your yard, or yourself, remember to be open and genuine. I have a good feeling about this month.
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