It seems as though spring just may be here, after nearly 60 inches of snow in the Madelia area this past winter. It will be interesting what summer brings us.
When should the humming birds be showing up at our feeders?
In checking with the internet Donna found they have arrived in Wisconsin already, so birders are thinking the humming birds should be here the last week in April or at least the first week in May. Birders say the humming birds and robins go back to the same place every year.
The recipe for the humming bird solution is 4 parts water and 1 part white sugar. Let this come to a near boil, then cool before putting it outside in the humming bird feeders. The orioles also like this mix. Once you see several humming birds in the area, it's time to hang a second and third feeder in the area.
When is the latest I can plant my potatoes and yet expect a good crop?
LeVerne from Preston last year planted 30 hills of potatoes on June 15. By mid-August LeVerne had good sized potatoes. This could vary from year to year, depending on the season. Thanks for the information LeVerne.
Can I still add salt to my asparagus bed for the control of grass and weeds?
No, it's too late to be spreading the salt at this time as the asparagus spears are already appearing above ground. The time to apply salt on the asparagus bed is just as the last snow melts, and a second application about the first week in April. Once the spears have emerged it's too late to be doing this task.
Which is the best time to plant grass seed - in the spring or in the fall?
Both times are all right to plant grass seeds. You will have fewer weeds growing with your grass in the fall, and you will have faster growth of grass in the spring. For a shady area plant the grass seeds labeled for shady areas. Likewise, look for seed labeled for sunny areas if that suits your yard.
When is it time to plant raspberries?
Once the ground warms up, this is the time to be planting these. Contact me for the best varieties to plant.
What are some magazines to help gardeners?
Birds and Blooms and Garden Gate are just a couple that make good resources, among others available on magazine racks.
What plants can one grow in containers with reasonable success?
Many of your vegetables can be planted in containers, like tomatoes, cucumbers, radishes, peas, onions, as well as many of the annual flowers which can be purchased at your hometown nursery.
When should I be planting my vine crops?
Some of these vine crops like the cucumber, will produce better in planting after June 1, once the ground warms up well.
...
Hank Wessels is a Master Gardener in Watonwan County. He welcomes questions and comments from readers. He may be reached at 601 1st St. SW, Madelia, MN 56062, hwdw@madtelco.net or (507) 642-8479.
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Ace of Spades: Humming birds should be here soon, if not already
Originally published in the April 16, 2010, print edition.
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