Easy Gardening

Host: Gary Bachman, Ornamental Horticulture Specialist

Transcription:

Now is the time to start thinking about how to make the garden a lot easier next year and beyond today on Southern Gardening

Southern Gardening with Gary Bachman is produced by the Mississippi State University Extension Service.

I am one to try to make the garden a little easier to take care of, especially when it gets hot later this summer. So, I try to give some hints and tips to make garden chores more tolerable.

In the spring, we all suffering from cabin fever, and the flowering plants at the garden center all seem to be calling our name. But try to resist the siren call. Pick plants that will work with the growing conditions of your landscape. And remember the “kiss” method of gardening and landscaping. Only buy what you will have time and energy to take care of. You can always buy more plants as the season progresses. 

Watering can take up a lot of time—hauling hoses around the garden. So, try soaker hoses to apply water exactly where the plants need it. They will save time and money. Container gardens will need to be watered more frequently. Usually, at least once a day in the heat of the summer. Simple drip irrigation kits are available at your favorite garden center or home improvement store and make great Christmas presents. They are easy to set up, and when used with a timer, your watering chores are automatic for the season. 

One of my favorite quotes from Star Trek was Scotty saying, “The right tool for the right job.” This is good advice in any century. Choose tools that are the right size and fit your hands comfortably. And be sure to keep your tools sharp. Use a file to sharpen. And even some hardware tools will sharpen for you. 

I am Horticulturist Gary Bachman for Southern Gardening.

Southern Gardening with Gary Bachman is produced by the Mississippi State University Extension Service.