UC Marin Master Gardeners

APRIL

If April showers should come your way, they bring the flowers that bloom in May.
- Buddy de Sylva

BULBS DONE BLOOMING?
Wait to cut back or dig up bulbs till leaves turn brown. Bulbs gather and store energy for next year’s bloom using this year’s leaves. Brush up on the basics of bulb care here.

FINISH UP SPRING PRUNING
If you’re not sure when to prune, check out our handy guide to determine when each tree or shrub should be cut to maximize growth or beauty. For flowering shrubs that bloom on new wood (such as most roses), now is the time to do any last-minute pruning. Do not prune shrubs that flower on old wood this time of year, as this will diminish the amount of flowers. These should instead be pruned shortly after the plant has finished blooming. For species-specific pruning tips, click here.

SOW WILDFLOWER SEEDS NOW
Broadcasting seed before the end of Spring rains will give your wildflowers a strong start and more blooms in the long run. Many gorgeous annuals are native to California, making them well suited to our climate and an important food source for bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. Here are some easy winners to get your started

GARDENING MYTH BUSTED!
Myth: If fertilizer is good, twice as much is even better.
Fact: Applying more fertilizer than needed is harmful not only to your plants but also to Marin’s watershed and ecosystem. Instead of using fertilizer, amend your soil with compost and top with mulch. Click here to learn more about fertilizing.

WHAT TO DO IN APRIL:
This month's plant & garden care list

HELP DESK HOT TOPIC:
Minimize plant stress from soggy soil after rains

FIRE-SMART TIP OF THE MONTH:
Assessing fire risk

EDIBLE GARDEN NEWS:
The importance of soil testing

"Ask a Master Gardener..."

FEATURED THIS WEEK IN THE MARIN IJ:

Tomatoes, tomatoes, tomatoes

Aficionados of home-grown tomatoes all around the county look forward to Saturday, April 20, when Marin Master Gardeners host their annual Tomato Markets...