Gardening in June

Adjust and check irrigation systems. Dry spots need correction. Spray heads may be blocked or clogged. A dry spot in the lawn may be difficult to re-green without a wetting agent.

Mulching all shrub and flower beds this month could save lots of water and keep weeding chores to a minimum this summer. If you are too busy, have a service like Lane Forest Products apply the mulch in just a few hours.

Cutworms begin their work at night this month. If your plants are gone in the morning, stop by a garden center on the way home for several different options, or try wrapping the base of the plant with protection buried into the dirt (like cardboard or paper about 2″ high).

Check irrigation systems to ensure complete coverage. Lawns that turn brown in spots this month will be difficult to green before the fall rains. Hanging baskets will need checking daily.

In the garden, starts planted last month need additional applications of fertilizer this month. This is also a good month to plant sweet corn. Soak overnight before planting to help germinate. Soil needs to be warm for germination. Watch for aphids, cabbage worms, and beetles this month.

Mulch or re-mulch landscape beds or gardens to conserve water. Established plants need deep soaking once or twice a week rather than some every day.

Fertilize the lawn now for healthy growth throughout the Summer. Water in well to avoid burn or use a good slow release lawn food for long-term feeding.

Fruit trees drop excess in June. Afterward, you should thin by hand to protect limbs and produce larger fruit. Thin apples and pears to one or two fruits per cluster; peaches and plums to 8 inch spacing. Place traps in apple trees to detect codling moth emergence. Expect fruit flies in cherry trees with fruit.

Bring house plants outside for necessary maintenance. Clean, groom, and re-pot if needed. Acclimate to sun conditions with care.