The gardening season in southeastern Manitoba is well underway, thanks to a recent stretch of warm weather. However, many gardeners may still be wondering if they've fallen behind, especially after a cool start to the growing season. According to gardening expert Erna Wiebe from Oakridge Garden Centre, there's still plenty of time to get plants in the ground and set gardens up for success.
Wiebe notes that the recent warm weather has sparked a rush of gardening activity, with people excited to finally be outside and feeling like it's that time of year. For those who have delayed planting flowers, vegetables, and other heat-loving plants, Wiebe says now is a good time to get started, with a few precautions.
One key precaution is to water plants thoroughly before and after planting to reduce transplant shock. With temperatures climbing and strong winds continuing, Wiebe emphasizes the importance of paying close attention to watering, especially for containers and hanging baskets. She recommends watering these at least once a day, while smaller baskets may need water twice daily during hot weather.
When it comes to lawns, gardens, trees, and shrubs, Wiebe says timing matters. She advises watering early in the morning to reduce evaporation and give plants a better chance to withstand the heat later in the day. For trees and shrubs, she recommends a thorough deep watering rather than daily watering.
Mulch is another important tool for gardeners. Wiebe encourages the use of mulch around trees, shrubs, and perennial plants, as it adds a layer of insulation, keeps moisture at the roots, and helps cool the soil during extended hot and dry periods.
One common misconception, according to Wiebe, is that it's too hot to plant tomatoes. In fact, tomatoes thrive in the heat and can be planted deeply with only the top few inches of the plant above the soil surface. This buried stem develops additional roots, helping the plant access more moisture and nutrients throughout the season.
Wiebe also reassures gardeners who haven't yet planted their vegetable gardens that it's not too late. She notes that her garden goes in around July, and she always gets a good vegetable crop. Warm soil temperatures and long summer days help late-planted gardens catch up quickly.
Looking back on her father's gardening habits, Wiebe recalls that he often waited until after the first week of June to plant, watching his neighbors and saying, 'My garden always catches up.' Her favorite plants include hydrangeas among shrubs and cucumbers and tomatoes in her vegetable garden.
In conclusion, Wiebe's message to gardeners is simple: there's still time to plant, water wisely, and enjoy the growing season. With a few precautions and the right timing, gardeners can set their gardens up for success and enjoy the fruits of their labor.
