Fresno Gardening Green

The astronomical calendar may say we're still in the midst of winter, but in Fresno County, the meteorological calendar tells a different story. Saturated soil and warming, spring-like conditions are pushing weeds to germinate in earnest. Quick attention is needed to maintain control.

Take a drive along the Blossom Trail. March is the time to put winter's planning into action as spring comes to the garden. Tasks Continue fruit tree spraying and spray fungicide on apple and cherry trees.

Make some shopping expeditions to your favorite nurseries to select water-conserving trees, shrubs, and perennials. Tasks Inspect trees for die-back and weak limbs, which are common in drought-stressed plants, and remove them before they become a safety hazard.

Snails and slugs are among the most damaging pests in landscapes and gardens, including the UC Master Gardeners Children's Garden, part of the Garden of the Sun.

Tasks Sharpen tools to make cleaner cuts. Clean and maintain pruning equipment. Keep weeds under control remove or kill weeds before they mature and produce seeds. Pruning Deadhead winter annuals to prolong bloom.