Spring is here, and it’s time to put on your gloves, get your shovel and start gardening. Whether a first-time gardener or a veteran planter, here are a few tips to get you–or keep you–going.
Bulbs
Even if you were late to plant your spring bulbs, there still may be hope for your blooms.
According to the Washington State University Master Gardeners’ blog, “Spring bulbs are also very forgiving and may still bloom even when put into the ground as late as early March.”
Master Gardener Sheila Gray wrote:
“Bulbs grow and bloom the best when planted in an area that receives direct sunlight and adequate moisture. They can be planted in groupings (3 or more) or in a straight line depending on available space in your planting location. It is a good idea to think about the height of the bulbs, not just the color, if you are planting several different types in the same area in order to create a pleasing display.”
Vegetables
Bountiful Beans
If you are looking for a delicious snack that is easy to grow, look no further.
Edible-pod beans should be planted in late spring when soil temperature reaches 65° F. According to master gardeners, islanders should select varieties with the shortest growing season as listed by date to maturity to ensure ripening. Plant seeds 2 inches apart in rows spaced 18-24 inches apart. It takes 50-80 days to harvest.
Tasty tomatoes
If you are feeling confident about your green thumb, try your hand at tomatoes. According to master gardener blogger Gary Fredricks, tomatoes can be very temperamental, and if not cared for correctly, you can end up with few fruit or mostly green tomatoes.
Water, water every plant. Fredricks said to expect to water your tomatoes about 1 inch per week during peak tomato growth. Pro tip: Use mulch to prevent drowning, which will increase leaf growth and reduce fruit size.
The growing season is May through October. You can transplant your tomatoes after the last frost date in May or June.
Cool cucumbers
Plant cucumbers after the danger of frost has passed when soil temperatures reach 65° F.
Master gardeners say most cucumbers require 50-70 days from planting to the first harvest.
Purchase seed from catalogs and garden centers. Master gardeners recommend not planting cucumber seed that has been saved from the previous year, as they are unlikely to produce the same variety.
For more info, visit http://gardening.wsu.edu.
Garden tip: We can help you solve plant problems.
Gazing out at your garden, you notice your rose has yellow leaves. Suddenly you realize your plant has a problem, and you don’t know what to do to fix it. It’s time to turn to your WSU Master Gardener Volunteer diagnostic clinic for help.
The WSU Extension office is located at 221 Weber Way, Suite LL, Friday Harbor, WA 98250.
Call us if you need help: 360-378-4414.
For more info, visit extension.wsu.edu/sanjuan/master-gardeners.
