It’s March. Meteorological spring has arrived (March 1) and the vernal equinox is right around the corner (March 20). What should Minnesota gardeners be doing the last two weeks of March?
- Prune trees like fruit trees, crabapples, showy mountain ash, hawthorn, oak.
- Pruning trees and shrubs
- How to prune apple trees: A 3-part series
- Stop pruning oaks on April 1 as the risk for oak wilt becomes high.
- Get seeds: locally, online, trade with friends
- Start seeds that need 6-8 weeks till they can be planted outside.
- Scout houseplants for insects.
- Many houseplants are in full bloom - orchids, amaryllis, Easter cactus - and are magnets for pests like mealybugs, fungus gnats, spider mites.
- Managing insects on indoor plants
- Get your tools in order.
- Diseases can still be on pruners, spades, hoes, cages, stakes, pots and other gardening implements even after a cold winter.
- Take a day to Clean and disinfect your gardening tools and containers.