KATHY’S HOME & GARDEN TIPS – LAWN AND GARDEN PREP FOR SUMMER
It's that time again to get the lawn and garden ready for the long summer season. Here are a few simple steps that can give your lawn and garden a good start on the growing season.
THE LAWN
Mix topsoil with sand, about a two parts soil to one part sand mix. Spread this mix over the whole lawn evenly. Pay special attention to low areas.
When we have a heavy rain look to see where the water pools, this is a low area. Augment with your soil and sand mixture. The sand will benefit the clayey soil that we have in the Chicago area.
Also remember, if watering is necessary, don't overdue it. Place empty cans (a tuna can will do) around the yard and once they reach the fill line (one inch of water), be sure to turn off the sprinkler or water hose. This encourages deep root growth.
THE GARDEN
Plan the garden before planting. You don't want your vegetables fighting for the same space because you didn't plan.
Use a trellis for beans and peas or train them up a fence. This also works for cucumbers. Tomatoes can also be tied to a fence or you can use cages.
Be sure to make cages so you don't have to fight with rabbits and squirrels. You can make your own cages with chicken wire.
It's good to rotate your vegetables every year.
Augment the soil when you plant each vegetable. Dig a hole twice as big as you would need. Throw a hand full of manure in. Top with two double handfuls of topsoil. Water all the vegetables thoroughly.
Throughout the season water as you would the lawn. The lawn and garden need one inch per week. If we don't get what we need from Mother Nature we need to water.
Vegetables need fertilizing every two weeks. Miracle Grow is easy to use and effective. Attach to the hose and water!
Happy Gardening!
KATHLEEN WEAVER-ZECH & DEAN'S TEAM CHICAGO
