I noticed you listed the dates of the Clark County Master Gardener Foundation’s Annual Plant Sale several weeks ago. Now I am wondering what type of plants will be found there. I want a shade tree and some berries, will they have those? I notice there is not a lot of parking on the lot inside the grounds.
You won’t need to worry about parking, master gardeners have worked out a wonderful system for parking, with many members dedicated to assisting folks in finding a good parking spot.
I have no doubt that you will find the exact plants that you are looking for. It is always amazing to me the huge selection of plants they will offer. The sale begins at 9 a.m. Saturday. Traditionally, folks line up in great anticipation of finding that grand bargain. Not to worry, there are so many of those that everyone goes home quite happy with their own treasure and bargains.
I may have given you a wrong date, however; the correct dates for the Master Gardener Foundation plant sale are May 12-13.
You mentioned sometime ago not to work the soil if it is too wet. Well it will probably be wet until late June if I can go by the springs we have here. So when do you suggest we try planting ?
Yes, you are so right about the spring rains here, but with the longer daylight hours as spring progresses, the earth warms up and things will begin to grow. Here is the way I learned to tell if the soil is ready to work: in your garden plot, make a ball of soil in your hand. If it crumbles as you open your hand, it’s dry enough to work. If it stays in a clump, it’s wet. Working soil when it’s too wet will harm the structure and promote compaction.
I’m planting some small trees and I see some people stake their trees and others don’t, Which way is best?
Studies show that trees that are allowed to bend or sway in the winds develop greater root and trunk strength than those rigidly staked. If the area you choose to plant the tree in is quite windy, you might stake it in such a way that it could move slightly with the breeze.
Celeste Lindsay is a WSU master gardener. Send questions to mslindsay8@gmail.com.
