Be cautious when removing plant debris in the spring
If you are running late getting your garden cleaned up, it is OK to continue removing garden debris from beds and cutting back perennials. The perennials have begun growing, so be very careful when cutting them back and removing debris to avoid damaging new shoots.
It's easy to damage new growth by using a rake and walking in garden beds. Cut perennials back higher above ground to help avoid damaging new growth as needed. You may not be able to see the new growth emerging from ornamental grasses, so be especially careful when cutting them back now.
• Many garden beds have irregular edges. Beds look better and are easier to mow along if they have smooth, flowing curves.
Use a pliable garden hose or rope to lay out your new bed line. All clumps of grass should be removed from the bed and any clods of soil should be broken up and spread around. Avoid the “volcano effect” around trees that is caused by piling soil and mulch up around the trunk.
• As spring weather improves, it's tempting to make impulse plant buys from catalogs and garden centers. Take the time to select plants that are well suited to your garden's growing conditions and fulfill your design criteria to ensure a successful garden.
Putting the right plant in the right location will result in a better looking garden that requires less maintenance.
• Apply fertilizer to garden beds if needed. Most gardens in the Chicago area have soils with adequate levels of phosphorus, so choose a fertilizer with little or no phosphorus. The higher the percentage of nitrogen in the fertilizer you use, the less you need to apply to your garden, so follow instructions on the bag or ask a salesperson for advice.
Have your soil tested if you want to choose the best fertilizer for your garden. Use soil from a few locations to mix together for a good composite sample. If your garden is large, break up your property into sections and send in multiple samples.
• Tim Johnson is director of horticulture at Chicago Botanic Garden, chicagobotanic.org.