By Carolyn Applegate
Nebraska Extension Master Gardener
April 23 – April Showers bring May Flowers! But what happens if you left your rain gauge inside? A watering tip to help determine your watering needs. If you are unsure how dry your soil is, insert a screwdriver. This will help determine the moisture content, not only by feeling the compaction but also seeing the soil particles that stick to the blade. If muddy, then water is likely being applied too often; if it’s dry and powdery, then it needs to be applied more frequently. So, stick it to your soil today.
April 24 – Variety is the spice of life. That can be said for your vegetable garden as well. When planning your garden this spring, consider planting Tomatoes, basil, and marigolds together. Basil and marigolds may act as a pest deterrent for tomatoes, as well as encouraging pollinators and increasing diversity. So when planning and planting your garden this year mix it up.
April 25 – Garden Buddies – Everyone needs a friend. Companion planting in garden beds is when two or more species are planted together in the same area. This is beneficial to both plants as it is designed to maximize growing space, discourage pests, improve soil structure, and encourage diversity. Remember that choosing the right buddy is a win-win.
April 26 – A Fairy Ring, unlike the name implies, is not a magical occurrence. This peculiar circle in the turf can take on many appearances. Fairy Rings sometimes show up as actual mushrooms in the lawn. Another form occurs when the grass grows a very healthy-looking circle randomly in the lawn, or even a circle of dead grass. Most of the time, a management practice can be altered to reduce disease issues, such as watering more uniformly or fertilizing differently.
April 27 – Rotation, rotation, rotation, rotation. Consider putting your garden on a four-year rotation, as this is a great way to help your garden grow healthier. Rotating your garden breaks up soil fungi and bad nematode populations, feeds the soil with organic matter, as well as breaks up weed pressures. It also helps the gardener think in a more holistic manner. Remember to rotate.